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Befriending volunteer

Befriending volunteer

 As a Befriender you could provide company for a lonely older person in Redbridge, Barking & Dagenham or Havering

Sign up to volunteer now 

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 Redbridge, Barking & Havering.

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

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 Redbridge, Barking & Havering'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 1 hour per week for a Visiting Befriender, or 2-3 hours a week for a Telephone Befriender,over a long period of time. Volunteers will also need to attend a short training session and provide references.