Why buddies matter
Buddy support received the strongest participant evaluation in the intervention. Its value came from availability, practical interpretation and access to knowledge that formal processes did not contain.
The useful role is cultural and organisational translation—not case management, therapy or unofficial HR administration.
Five design controls
A managed buddy system needs more than a matching spreadsheet.
- Selection for availability and judgement
- Clear boundaries
- Contact within 72 hours
- A backup and escalation route
- Tapering as independence grows
What the organisation still owns
Visa, licensing, systems access, role conflict and formal employee concerns remain organisational responsibilities. A buddy can help the newcomer find the route; the buddy should not become the route.