My brother was supported one-to-one by COVEY for two years before it was finally my turn! Watching him grow and thrive through his support made me all the more excited. When I turned eight, I was overjoyed to get my very own COVEY Befriender.

When I began my journey with COVEY, I often felt isolated at school and unsure of where I belonged. Having my Befriender by my side gave me something to look forward to - an outlet where I felt safe, seen, and supported.

She chose activities tailored to my interests - things that brought joy and helped me grow. I remember going ice skating and to the cinema - simple experiences that felt magical to me. These were things I rarely had the chance to do, and they opened up a whole new world.

Slowly but surely, I began to discover a sense of confidence I didn’t know I had.

One day, my Befriender introduced me to dance classes. She thought they might help me build confidence and meet new people. She couldn’t have known that this first dance class would spark a lifelong passion and guide me toward my future.

When I danced and performed, I felt free. It was a space where I could express myself fully. Over time, my self-belief blossomed, and so did my dreams. I began to imagine myself performing on a stage - not just as a wish, but as something I could achieve.

When I was 14, my Dad passed away unexpectedly. It was one of the hardest moments of my life - but COVEY was there, walking with me every step of the way. My Befriender, our Family Coordinator, and my brother’s Befriender all came to the funeral. In that moment, they weren’t just support workers - they felt like family.

I’ll never forget how gently my Befriender stood by me, offering space, patience, and kindness, even when I wasn’t ready to talk. And it wasn’t just me who was held with care - COVEY made sure my mum also had someone to lean on.

In the midst of change and uncertainty, they brought stability, compassion, and a deep sense of being valued.

When my time with COVEY came to a close, it felt like the end of a beautiful chapter. They had walked with me through my lowest and lifted me toward my highest. During the transition, my Befriender continued to support me in attending dance classes until I began College. From that point, I felt ready to take all the strength, skills, and self-belief I’d built and begin the next part of my journey.

Without COVEY, I wouldn’t be where I am today - doing the work I love, studying the subject that fills me with joy, and having a clear vision for my future.

COVEY was the steady voice reminding me that I mattered. They helped me turn my experiences into purpose. I knew I wanted to work with children, so I studied Childcare at college and volunteered at a local performing arts school. That led to a job in a nursery - where I was able to bring together my love for teaching and performing.

This experience inspired me to take the next big step: applying for the BA (Hons) Dance and Drama course at Edinburgh College, where I now specialise in Drama. I’m proud to be graduating this November.

If my Befriender were standing here today, I’d thank her with all my heart. She changed my life in ways I’ll carry with me forever.

COVEY was my light during difficult times. They uplifted me, believed in me, and helped me believe in myself. They reminded me that no matter what I’d been through, I could rise, grow, and thrive.