Befriending volunteers

Can you help us to make a difference to older people living in North Worcestershire? 

Did you know that over 1.2 million older people (aged 65 and over in England) are persistently/ chronically lonely?  Loneliness is a terrible thing, but you can do something to help by becoming an Age UK Bromsgrove, Redditch & Wyre Forest Befriender. Watch this short video produced by local TV & Media Students from Heart of Worcestershire College to find out more!

What do Befrienders do?

Befrienders get matched with an older person in the community - they visit the person or call them on a regular basis, providing companionship.

Personal qualities most suited to this role:

A genuine interest and empathy with older people, patient, good listening skills, common sense, understands the need for confidentiality, reliable and trustworthy, able to undertake the role on their own.

What you will get out of the role?

A rewarding experience (this is a great way to make a real difference to someone’s life), you’ll be giving something to the community, you will be a part of the Age UK Bromsgrove, Redditch and Wyre Forest Team.

What is expected of me?

Befriending volunteers are expected to call or visit their matched older person regularly - this usually involves a commitment of around an hour a week.

What you can expect from us?

We will make sure that you receive appropriate training for the role and that you have the support of a member of staff, we will also cover agreed out-of-pocket expenses for volunteers.