In Touch Befriending - Accepting Referrals

Our Befriending Service is designed for older people who would like more company and friendship, particularly those who struggle to leave their homes by themselves. We will match an older person with a volunteer, who will visit on a weekly or fortnightly basis. Matches will be made based on shared interests, life experiences, or hobbies to best ensure that a relationship can blossom.

If you or an older person you know is feeling lonely and would like more social connection, please get in touch. You can come to us directly or through another charity, GP or support service. Do check the eligibility criteria below first!

To register your interest in befriending support or to sign up to volunteer with the service, please contact Emily (emily@ageukhf.org.uk).

Eligibility Criteria 

• Aged 55+ and living in the London Borough of Hammersmith & Fulham 
• Acknowledges feeling socially isolated or lonely and has agreed to the referral 
• Needs and expectations fall within the service’s scope and capacity 
• Able to form a mutually rewarding social relationship with a vetted volunteer 
• Able to remember and keep appointments (with support if required) 
• Willing to take part in an assessment and agree to service guidelines (including data protection) 
• Does not have acute or intensive mental health needs 
• Able to receive visitors into their home or engage in regular telephone conversations 
• Priority is given to individuals who are housebound