Volunteer Befriender-Home Visit (1 hour) or Telephone Support (30–60 minutes)
Volunteer Befriender-Home Visit (1 hour) orTelephone Support (30–60 minutes)
Make a Difference in Just One Hour a Week!
Our befriending service supports older residents in Croydon who are housebound or have limited mobility and may experience loneliness or social isolation.
A simple one-hour visit or friendly phone call each week can make a real difference. As a Volunteer Befriender, you’ll offer companionship and help someone feel heard, valued and connected. Many people tell us it becomes the highlight of their week.
Purpose of the role and commitment
- Provide a weekly home visit (1 hour) or telephone call (30–60 minutes) to offer friendly conversation and a listening ear.
- A minimum commitment of 6 months to provide stability and build a trusting relationship. Many matches continue beyond this as friendships naturally develop.
- Flexibility if your circumstances change (we simply ask for as much notice as possible).
- Submit a brief weekly report after visits or calls.
- Raise any wellbeing or safeguarding concerns with the Befriending Coordinator.
Support Provided
- Training, induction and ongoing support throughout your match.
- We will complete the Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) application with you.
- Supervision and direct contact with the Befriending coordiniator / manager
- Join and participate in peer support groups and meet other volunteers to share experiences and good practice.
What we’re looking for
- A warm and friendly approach with good listening skills.
- A non-judgmental attitude.
- Reliability and commitment.
Benefits
- The opportunity to make a meaningful difference.
- Reimbursement of agreed expenses.
- The chance to build skills and confidence.
Interested?
Alternatively, you can also email us at Befriending@ageukcroydon.org.uk