Befriending Volunteer

Time and Day Required: Once a week for 1-2 hours

Minimum Length of Commitment: 1 year

Report to: Volunteering Manager

Role Overview: As a Befriender, you will visit your Befriendee once a week for around an hour. You will be matched with an older person with shared interests, and you will spend time with them so they feel less lonely. You may also help them with small tasks, such as collecting prescriptions or accompanying them to appointments. Your new older friend may wish to take walks or just have a cup of tea together – just let us know what you’re comfortable with and we’ll find the perfect match for you.

You’ll develop a long-lasting relationship and will potentially stay friends with your Befriendee for many years. As a Befriender, we hope you will gain as much from your friendship as the older person you support.

Skills/Attributes Required:

• Caring and sympathetic 
• Good listening and communication skills
• Patient and non-judgemental