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Befriending

Narinder (AUK Befriender) and Alberto enjoying a bit of sunshine in Reading

What do Befrienders do?

It's a terrible thing to be lonely. Did you know that 1.2 million older people are chronically lonely? You can do something to help by becoming a befriender with Age UK Reading.

Befrienders are matched with an older person in the community. They visit them or call them on a regular basis to provide companionship. 

All volunteers are interviewed and references are obtained. A Disclosure and Barring Service check is also made before a volunteer can participate in befriending.

If you would like to know more about this service please contact our Befriending Co-ordinator on 0118 950 2480 or befriending@ageukreading.org.uk

 

 

Become a volunteer Befriender

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 get to be part of Age UK Reading's volunteer team
  • Volunteers tell us they find befriending really rewarding

What is expected of me?

Befriending volunteers are expected to call or visit their friend regularly. This usually involves a commitment of around 30 minutes to an hour per week, over a long period of time. Volunteers will also need to attend a short training session, provide references, and undergo a DBS check. You can read more about the Befriending project and watch a video here.

Find out more

To find out more or have an informal chat about Befriending you can contact our Co-ordinator on 0118 9502480 or email befriending@ageukreading.org.uk