Befriending volunteer
As a befriender you could provide company for a lonely older person in Shropshire or Telford & Wrekin.
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 Shropshire Telford & Wrekin.
Befrienders are matched with an older person in the community. They will either visit them on a regular basis to provide companionship, sometimes taking them out on short trips or accompanying them to a local activity, or they will telephone them on a regular basis to provide companionship and support.
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 Shropshire Telford & Wrekin's volunteer team
- Volunteers tell us they find befriending really rewarding
What is expected of me?
Befriending volunteers are expected to contact their client regularly. If they visit their client, this usually involves a commitment of around two to three hours per week, over a long period of time. If they telephone their client, volunteers are expected to call them regularly, to be able to speak clearly and communicate well and to provide a confidential listening ear.
Volunteers will also need to attend a short training session and provide references. This role will require a Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check, which we will organise for you.
Terry's story
‘When I first met my client it only took a few minutes of chatting to realise we were going to get along just fine. We talk about anything and everything and the time passes so quickly. I find it very satisfying to be able to help with someone's life, even in a small way.’
‘As a befriender you can offer your time to help just one person or multiple people depending on the time you are able to give. I have found all the staff at Age UK Shropshire Telford & Wrekin are always very helpful and supportive.’