Loneliness and social isolation can affect both physical and mental health. Many older people want to stay independent in their own homes but may find it harder to get out and about.
Our befriending service connects people with friendly volunteers who offer regular social contact and help them stay involved in their community. Volunteers visit people in their homes for a chat or, if someone is able, take them out to a café or garden centre. Telephone befriending is also available. Contact can be either weekly or less often if preferred.
Our Community Visiting Coordinator will visit you first to explain the service and learn more about your interests. We then carefully match you with a volunteer befriender. The Coordinator will return with the volunteer to introduce you both.
Our befrienders are local people who want to give their time to support their community. They bring a wide range of experiences and interests, and our Coordinator takes great care to match people well.
All volunteers provide references and complete a Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check.
There is no charge for the service. We simply ask that you cover volunteer mileage for any outings and the cost of refreshments. Please note that volunteers cannot provide personal care, financial or legal advice.
You can refer yourself or make a referral on behalf of a family member, friend, or someone you care for. We also accept referrals from voluntary organisations and statutory services.
If you or someone you know would benefit from regular contact with a local befriending volunteer, please use the contact form below or call our friendly team on 01642 710 085.