Together, we're not alone.

As we move into winter when risk factors for older people increase significantly, we’re urging people to support our Oxfordshire based Phone Friends service which helps alleviate loneliness and isolation among older people.

During the winter months, many older people in Oxfordshire face increased isolation and loneliness. Together, we can ensure that older people don’t have to face loneliness, alone. Phone Friends provides a vital lifeline, offering regular friendly phone calls to those who are feeling lonely, forgotten or who have no one to talk to. Weekly calls from our friendly volunteers bring comfort, friendship and joy to older people. This service not only provides companionship but also ensures that older people feel connected and supported, and at times has been lifesaving. Currently over 330 people receive a free, weekly telephone call from one of our phone friend volunteers, and we have a waiting list who could benefit from this support.

Volunteer telephone befrienders really brighten the lives of the older people they call, giving them something they can look forward to. Please help us support older people who are feeling lonely.

If you are able to give money:

• £6 would pay for 2 friendly and motivational conversations
• £36 would pay for 12 friendly and motivational conversations
Every donation, no matter the size, can help us provide the human connection that too many older people live without. With your support, we can do so much more.

Text FRIENDSHIP followed by your donation amount to 70460 to give that amount. For example, text FRIENDSHIP 6 to 70460 to donate £6. Texts will cost the donation amount plus one standard network rate message.

You can also donate online, call 0345 450 1276 or email contactus@ageukoxfordshire.org.uk.

If you are able to give time:

By volunteering just an hour or two each week at a time that suits you, you
can make a significant difference in someone's life from the comfort of your own home. Volunteers are matched with older individuals based on shared interests, ensuring meaningful and engaging conversations.We offer out of pocket expenses, training and support and in return you will join a great team of volunteers. We also have a volunteer newsletter to keep in touch with you.

Full training is offered virtually, usually over Microsoft Teams, for one hour, or we can train you over the telephone. You will also receive a training information pack to support you when you make your calls. We ask for a minumum commitment of six months.

To find out more about becoming a Phone Friends Volunteer please visit our webpage, call 01295 234 850 or email volunteering@ageukoxfordshire.org.uk.