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Befriending Telephone Support Volunteer

Role Context

Age UK Ealing is dedicated to improving the lives of older people in the borough. We offer a range of services and support that promote independence, wellbeing, and social connection. Our volunteers are vital to helping us achieve this mission.

The befriending service aims to reduce social isolation and loneliness in older adults ages 65 and over. The service works closely with volunteers who are trained and matched with service users. The three main services we offer within Befriending is Neighbourly Connectors (face-to-face befriending), Telephone Support (over the phone befriending), and Social Events (monthly coffee mornings and community activities for mobile clients).

Purpose of the role

As a Telephone Support Volunteer, you will provide friendly, weekly phone calls to older people who are experiencing loneliness and isolation. Your time and conversation can make a real difference in helping someone feel connected and cared for.

A Telephone Support Volunteer will:

  • Make telephone calls to your matched clients on a weekly basis
  • Send updates to the Befriending Coordinator on contact made with your matched clients on a weekly basis
  • Offer a friendly ear, companionship, and general conversation
  • Report any wellbeing or safeguarding concerns to the Befriending Coordinator

Personal qualities most suited to this role:

  • A kind, patient, and empathetic nature.
  • Good communication and listening skill
  • Reliability and a commitment to maintaining regular contact with clients
  • Ability to respect confidentiality and follow safeguarding guideline
  • A basic understanding of the challenges facing older people (training can be provided).

Location: Age UK Ealing – Greenford Community Centre, 170 Oldfield Lane South, Greenford, UB6 9JS

Time is involved: We ask for a commitment of minimum 2 hours weekly.

Expenses and Insurance: We will cover agreed out-of-pocket expenses for volunteers (e.g., travel costs). We provide insurance cover for the time you are volunteering with us. This role is offered subject to satisfactory references and Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check, and we can help you to obtain a free DBS certificate.

Responsible to: Swati Khunti, Befriending Co-ordinator