Befriending Volunteers
As a befriender you could provide company for a lonely older person in South Lakeland, either in-person or over the phone.
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 South Lakeland. Befrienders get matched with an older person in their local community and either visit them or call them on a regular basis to provide companionship.
- It's a great way to make a real difference to someone's life.
- You'll be giving something back to your local community.
- Our volunteers often tell us that they find befriending particularly rewarding.
Befriending Volunteer Roles
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Home Visit Befrienders
Our Home Visit Befriender volunteers provide in-person companionship, including chatting, listening, reminiscing, making a cup of tea, and encouraging older people to join Age UK's activities in the local area.
Your role will be to visit those who would not otherwise have many visitors and who may be suffering from isolation. By meeting people in their homes, Home Visitors aim to encourage clients to join in activities within their local community and support them in accessing social groups and services. We provide full training for all Home Visitor volunteers.
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Telephone Befrienders
Our Telephone Befriender volunteers provide companionship by having regular conversations with an older person. You will need a good telephone manner, as well as good communication and listening skills.
Your role will be to offer companionship and support, and help older people maintain independence within their home and community, as well as refer through the Age UK South Lakeland helpline. As this type of volunteering can be carried out from your own home, many busier volunteers find it more convenient. We provide full training for all Telephone Befrienders.
Contact us to find out more
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact us and we would be happy to talk to you further.