Befriending Volunteer

As a Befriending volunteer you could provide company for a lonely older person on the Isle of Wight.

What do befriending volunteers do?

Many older people can be isolated and lonely especially if they don’t have family or friends nearby. A visit or telephone call from a befriending volunteer can really lift their spirits and give them something to look forward to. 

What you will get out of it

• It's a great way to make a real difference to someone's life
• You'll be giving something to your community
• You will gain a sense of pride in the impact you've had on someone's day
• You will be a key person in someone's journey
• Volunteers tell us they find befriending really rewarding

What is expected of me?

Befriending volunteers are expected to call or visit their client regularly. This usually involves a commitment of around 30 minutes to an hour per week, over a period of time. Your goal is to help reduce their social isolation and loneliness. Regular social interaction can help to build confidence, self-esteem and structure for someone, amongst many other positive outcomes.

We will also offer training to enable you to support your clients to set and achieve goals. All training will be covered by the charity and we will support you to improve your skills in guided conversation, understanding lonliness and isolation and goal setting. You will also be advised throughout your time as a volunteer at Age UK Isle of Wight of any one-off or new optional training we are able to provide to help you in your role, for example external bereavement training.

What next?

Get in touch to find out more.

Email: volunteering@ageukiw.org.uk
Call: 01983 525282

Or simply fill out our online form and someone will be in touch, click here.