Befriending Volunteer

Our Befriending service provides support to older, housebound and socially isolated people in the London Borough of Bexley. The aim of the service is to support people to relieve loneliness and help people remain independent and living in their own homes as long as possible. This will be achieved by a home visiting service (home may include a care home or sheltered housing).

Main duty:

• To visit a client and provide friendship
• A listening ear and abide by the befriending guidelines as provided by the befriending coordinator
• There will not be out of hours working and we do not replace statutory provision or act as an emergency service.

Volunteers must be over the age of 18 and willing to undertake an enhanced DBS, induction training and willing to make a regular weekly commitment for 1-2 hours per week.

In return you will receiving training and ongoing support and invitations to social events.

Research shows that regular befriending visits can improve mental health and reduce feelings of loneliness and isolation, improves the quality of life, helps older people feel more connected to their community and increases confidence and self-esteem.

What skills do I need?

• Willingness to work within Age UK Bexley's policies and procedures Respect confidentiality
• Attend regular meetings and an annual review meeting as arranged by the coordinator
• Record and report details of visits to befriending coordinator
• A genuine interest and concern for older people
• Confident and able to build rapport easily
• Reliable and trustworthy Good listening and communication skills
• Ability to travel within the Bexley borough