Community Befriending Volunteer

Our Community Befriending Service offers support to Redbridge residents who may be feeling isolated, lonely or disconnected from their friends, family, or local community. We also visit people who are housebound, providing companionship and a friendly face. In addition to regular befriending, we also offer ad-hoc practical support for those who may need one-off help such as help with grocery shopping, attending hospital appointments or assisting with short local errands.

The service is available to individuals with physical, sensory, hidden or learning disabilities and those who identify as neurodiverse or who are living with mild dementia. However, the service is also open to anyone who feels they need extra support or connection in their lives.

If you’d like to support someone in your local area and help reduce loneliness, we’d love to hear from you. This could involve the following:

Main tasks and responsibilities

• Visit assigned individual on a regular, agreed-upon schedule to provide companionship and reduce feelings of isolation. 
• Engage in friendly, non-judgmental conversations, ensuring the person feels heard and valued.
• Offer emotional support, encouragement, and a listening ear for individuals facing challenges such as loneliness and illness. 
• Participate in or support activities the individual enjoys, such as reading, hobbies, or light physical activities within the home environment and as appropriate. 
• Having a cup of tea and a chat at the service user's home
• Going for a walk
• Going for some light shopping / coffee
• Board games / puzzles at home

Benefits to volunteer

•   Make a meaningful difference in the life of someone experiencing isolation or emotional challenges. 
• Develop skills in communication, companionship, and supporting vulnerable individuals.
• Gain experience in community outreach, care, and support roles.
• Enhance your personal growth and sense of fulfilment through helping others.

What skills do I need?

• Open mind and non-judgemental 
• Would suit someone with patient and warm manner
• Ability to maintain boundaries and respect confidentiality.
• Compassionate, empathetic, and a good listener.
• Reliable, punctual, and committed to regular visits.
• Friendly, approachable, and patient.
• Respectful of personal space and diverse life experiences.
• Mobile phone / landline
• Drivers license bonus but not essential
• Need to 18+

When do I need to be available?

Details

Once a week for a minimum 1 hour visit