What will happen
Moving somewhere new can be overwhelming. A buddy programme matches local volunteers with newcomers. A buddy is a friendly point of contact who helps people find their way around local services, activities and groups. It's about friendship and practical support, not formal mentoring, and it can work for adults, young people or families.
Who's involved
Volunteer buddies
Newcomers
A coordinator
Community organisations, schools, workplaces and local services
What are the steps in making it happen
Recruit volunteer buddies
Give them basic training and guidance
Spread the word through organisations, workplaces, schools and services
Match buddies and newcomers by interests, needs or location
Encourage regular contact: meeting up, calls, going to events together
Check in with both sides along the way
Celebrate the connections made
Inclusion Tip
Match people on shared interests, hobbies, family circumstances or life experience. Keep it voluntary and flexible for everyone.
What resources are needed
A coordinator
Basic volunteer training
Safeguarding procedures – Garda vetting will be needed if buddies work with children or vulnerable adults
Simple information for buddies and newcomers
What are the logistics in getting it off the ground
Begin with a small group of trained volunteers. Build links with the organisations, employers, schools and services that already meet newcomers. Keep matching simple, set clear expectations on both sides, and check in regularly so any problems are picked up early.
How you'll know it's working:
The number of matches made
How often buddies are in touch
Newcomers know more about local services and activities
New friendships
People feel more confident and that they belong (a short before-and-after survey helps)
Links to examples
Familiar Faces, Meath Partnership – a local partnership's buddy programme
The Open Community – Become a Welcomer – community-led welcome for newcomers in Ireland
POSI Sanctuary Ambassadors – volunteers welcoming people seeking sanctuary
Buddy Migrants – an EU Erasmus+ project using buddy approaches to build inclusive communities through schools.
Growing Roots, New Zealand – helping families from refugee backgrounds grow food and keep culture alive
