Become a ‘Friend’

Who can be a ‘Friend’?

Potentially anyone in Wales who is not self-isolating can be a ‘Friend’ if they know someone locally who needs support.
You may already be a ‘Friend’

Many people in Wales have family nearby who are their support during this time, but others, individuals or couples, who are social distancing, self-isolating or shielding and don't have this support may need other people they know to help them.

People could become lonely and increasingly fearful, which could potentially have an adverse effect on their mental health.
People could possibly be at greater risk of unscrupulous people they don’t know offering to ‘help’
People may go against advice to socially distance, self-isolate or shield – for example going to their pharmacist or having to use public transport to go shopping, putting themselves at risk
There could be further unnecessary strain on the NHS and/or social services.

You need to be already known to person you are supporting (neighbour, friend etc)
The person who needs support identifies the people they would like to help them. Ideally, this is at least two ‘Friends’ in separate households.

Whilst following the social distancing rules and information on the ‘Friends’ hub, you could:

Pick up groceries and shopping
Pick up prescriptions
Walk pets
Provide regular telephone contact and/or via online methods such as Skype or FaceTime
Assist people to get online, or to access services online – whilst socially distancing
Provide ideas of things that people can do that don’t involve going out, to keep them emotionally and physically well
Put people in touch with support groups, and other useful local services
Help people prepare for eventualities that may arise
Provide reassurance with accurate and up to date information from Welsh Government and Public Health Wales.

Last updated: Jun 02 2020

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