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Befriending Volunteer ( over 18s)

Loneliness can affect anyone, and your time could make a life-changing difference to someone who may be feeling lonely, socially isolated, or whom could be affected by life changes such as early retirement, bereavement, or is new to the area. We are pleased to announce we are expanding our service to people aged 50 and over.

What does a befriender do?

As a befriending volunteer, your role will spend time getting to know someone, listening to how they are feeling, talk with one another, offering your support and encouraging them. You may wish to engage in an activity together such as a game of scrabble, going for a short walk, watching a film or sharing a hobby.

The support you provide will depend on the individual.

This may be a structured relationship lasting around six months, during which you will help them work towards personal goals such as gaining confidence or reconnecting with local group or activity. In other cases, you may choose to transition to an independent friendship, as a natural friendship has formed and for some, the support may be ongoing, offering regular, friendly conversation through weekly visits to the client’s home or telephone call.

At the six months there will be a review to reflect on the person’s progress and future needs.

You will receieve support too

You won’t be doing this alone. We will provide:

  • Initial training and guidance before you begin
  • Ongoing support and regular check-ins
  • A named contact at Age UK Coventry & Warwickshire to speak to whenever you need
  • Use of our software app to maximise efficiencies and provide a better volunteer experience

What are we looking for?

We are looking for volunteers who are:

  • Good listeners, caring, patient and empathetic
  • Reliable and consistent, committed
  • Comfortable talking to people from different backgrounds
  • Happy to support someone in working towards their personal goals

Using the app, you also have the flexibility to choose who you would like to be matched with based on client profiles hobbies, interests, location and their goal. You can choose to offer support either in person at the client’s home or by telephone, depending on what works best for you and the person you are supporting.

This is a flexible and rewarding role where you can truly make a difference.

What you will get out of it

What you will get out of it

  • It is a great way to make a real difference to someone's life
  • Create lasting memories
  • You will be giving something to your community
  • Learn, grow and develop new skills
  • Volunteers tell us they find Befriending very rewarding
  • You will get to be a part of Age UK Coventry & Warwickshire's volunteer team § Read one of our volunteer's befriending stories here.

 

Sign up to volunteer now