We are working to alleviate social isolation and loneliness in older people. Social isolation can very quickly result in depression and serious declines in physical health and wellbeing. Factors such as limited mobility, family moving away, the death of their partner or ill health or disability make it difficult for older people to ask for help as they perceive a stigma around loneliness. When a Befriender is visiting they can quickly raise an alert before a crisis ensues.

We engage clients with our Befriending Scheme and introduce them to a checked, trained and matched volunteer Befriender. They give clients the confidence to widen their social circles and may accompany them to events. Befrienders are aware of other services and can access information for the client. These connections to our clients are invaluable ensuring we are aware of issues as they arise and can signpost to our other services that will support them before a crisis ensues.