National Autistic Society Befriending and Mentoring Scheme

National Autistic Society Befriending and Mentoring Scheme

What is befriending?

Our befrienders spend a few hours once a week or fortnight socialising with people in the home or out and about, doing activities like going to the cinema, walking or playing computer games.

We also have e-befrienders, who socialise by exchanging emails instead, chatting about things of interest.

We match befrienders and e-befrienders based on shared interests. We can also try and match people with someone of a similar age, which we call buddying.

Siblings, parents and carers of people with autism can also apply for a befriender or e-befriender.

Befriending is suitable for those aged 5+.

Who are the befrienders?

We look for people who are trustworthy, friendly, reliable, willing to learn and sensitive to the needs of others. We provide all our befrienders with a full induction and training. Find out about becoming a befriender here.

Apply for a befriender

To find out about befriending opportunities near you, please contact your local scheme here.

What is mentoring?

Our mentors can help people with autism to learn new skills and achieve their personal goals, such as travelling more independently, managing money or managing their time.

Who are the mentors?

We look for people who are trustworthy, friendly, reliable, willing to learn and sensitive to the needs of others. We provide all our mentors with a full induction and training. 

Apply for a mentor

To find out about mentoring opportunities near you, please contact your local scheme here.