Scottish Friendly colleagues volunteer at Action for Children's Short Breaks service for the second year running

Over the course of two days, a total of 16 colleagues from Scottish Friendly volunteered their time to support Action for Children’s Renfrewshire Short Breaks in Kilbarchan. A vital resource that provides respite care and developmental support for children and young people aged 5 to 18, including those with complex health needs and learning difficulties.

Known locally as “Loom Walk”, the short breaks service offers a safe, nurturing environment where children can build life skills, socialise, and grow in confidence while giving families and carers a much-needed break from their daily responsibilities.

The Scottish Friendly team rolled up their sleeves to help restore the centre’s indoor spaces. Tasks included repairing tired surfaces and doors for painting, and applying fresh coats to doors, radiators and skirting boards, alongside anything else that was required to freshen up bedrooms and communal areas such as the living and dining rooms. These improvements help maintain a welcoming and stimulating environment for the children who use the service.

This volunteering effort aligns with Action for Children’s broader mission to support children and families, and help deliver more safe and happy childhoods. Across the UK in 2023/24, the charity helped 687,755 children, young people and their families, delivered 372 services and supported 54,878 children struggling with their mental health. Their digital parenting platform, Parent Talk, reached 468,786 families with free, expert advice.1

Locally, services like Loom Walk are especially critical. In Renfrewshire where Kilbarchan is located, 1 in 4 children live in poverty, and many families face daily challenges accessing support for children with disabilities or complex needs. Action for Children’s Short Breaks programme provides not only care and enrichment for children, but also essential respite for families under pressure.2

Jackie Flood, Registered Manager at Renfrewshire Short Breaks in Kilbarchan, said:

"The effort by volunteers at Scottish Friendly over the two days has been incredible and we’re so grateful for their support in making a real difference to the children and families who use the service.

We pride ourselves on offering a safe, loving and enjoyable space for young people so the work which has been done on our site over the past few days is a huge support in maintaining that. "

Kyle West, one of the volunteers from Scottish Friendly, commented:

"As a dad, volunteering at Loom Walk was incredibly meaningful. It reminded me just how important it is for families to have access to services like this, not just for the children, but for the parents and carers who give so much every day. It was a privilege to contribute to a space that offers such vital support."

This initiative is part of Scottish Friendly’s ongoing commitment to community engagement and social impact, supporting organisations that make a real difference in people’s lives.