Melina and Maddie were matched in August 2024 through Bright Futures UK’s befriending programme. At just five years old, Melina was undergoing treatment for leukaemia. She missed her entire Reception year of school, along with the everyday routines of friends, teachers, and playtime. This period of social isolation was especially difficult, as early years are vital for developing social skills and learning.
Melina is naturally curious and enjoys working on small activities at home, so her parents looked for a way to support her learning and social confidence. The befriending programme provided exactly that: an opportunity to connect with someone new in a safe, fun, and structured way, while also preparing her for her return to school.
From the start, Melina and Maddie’s bond has been filled with joy and creativity! They meet online every other week for an hour, with Melina’s input, their sessions are always personalised to her interest and goals. Sessions have included playdough, puppet making, colouring, and even yoga. Maddie encourages Melina’s ideas and helps bring them to life, keeping every session engaging and imaginative.
Daria, Melina’s mum, shares:
“Melina can’t wait to see Maddie. Their sessions are like a fresh breeze, a chance to chat and do something different. Maddie is so creative and always finds new activities. We love that Melina calls it ‘face-y talk’; it’s so sweet.”
These regular sessions have given Melina a welcome distraction from her treatment and the challenges of illness. They provide companionship, consistency, and a safe outlet where she can express herself freely. Because the programme is online, Melina can join without risk of infection, even on days when she isn’t feeling her best. Now six years old and back at school, she continues to treasure her sessions with Maddie as a space for fun and connection.
For Maddie, the experience has been just as meaningful! She began volunteering while in university, and the skills, patience, and confidence she developed through befriending Melina have stayed with her as she progressed to a Master’s programme.
Reflecting on the experience, Maddie says:
“The befriending programme has made such a difference for me, and hearing how much Melina looks forward to our ‘face-y talks’ is so special. Having someone to chat with and be creative alongside has helped her feel less isolated and given her companionship that she was missing. We’ve built a genuine connection. From catching up on her week to being silly and playing together. For me, it’s been incredibly rewarding to see how something as simple as colouring or yoga can bring so much joy. I look forward to our sessions every week, and it’s a programme I feel very grateful to be part of.”
What began as craft sessions has grown into a friendship that brings light and fun to both Melina and Maddie. Their story shows the power of small, consistent acts of connection and the difference befriending can make in the lives of young people and volunteers alike!
