Using a Volunteer Friends Support Scheme in a Temporary Relocation Programme

Abstract This article describes a voluntary Friends Scheme that sits alongside temporary relocation scheme for Human Rights Defenders at the University of York, UK. Members Scheme, including scheme’s co-ordinators, are all volunteers drawn from local community with remit to befriend Defenders, help orient them city and UK lifestyles offer opportunity experience day-to-day life outside university. With erosion globally operational space Defenders’ work, many in situations serious risk their health, well-being even life, jeopardizing long-term ability conduct work. has turn increased protection needs providing one mechanism meeting these. The Protective Fellowship Risk (PFS) York offers an institutionalized programme arose identified need additional informal support. In describing key aspects its operation, evolution over time, challenges rewards, draws on feedback both Friends. It is brought up date, outlining impact Covid-19. Experience date suggests use can be valuable part programmes staff running such schemes, volunteer community. systemic approach organization through having clear processes, regular communication between co-ordinators PFS, individual group support appears valuable.