Befriending
Befrienders are volunteers who spare an hour or two a week to visit a lonely or isolated older person.
Initially, we visit the client to establish his or her needs and interests. We then try to find a suitable befriender who will make regular visits. This is a hugely rewarding experience for our clients AND the befrienders. We currently have over 70 clients benefiting from this service.
We recently caught up with Manjit, an Age Concern Befriender, and Gillie, one of our clients, to hear how they spend their time together.
Our Social Support Co-ordinator, Gloria Fox, explained how she thought the two ladies would get along nicely as both have an interest in travel and different cultures.
Gillie had enjoyed working abroad in the diamond trade and had many interesting stories to tell.
We asked Manjit why she decided to become a befriender and she explained that she recalled how her own mother had complained about feeling lonely and being on her own.
With a couple of hours to spare each week, Manjit decided that she would like to make a difference to someone’s life to help alleviate any feelings of loneliness.
Gillie told us that she looks forward to Manjit’s visits and how they always have a laugh and a good chat. Gillie shares stories from her interesting past careers and Manjit talks about her way of life.
For Gillie hearing about other cultures and life in India is fascinating. Likewise, Manjit is learning more about the English way of life.
Both expressed that their time shared has given them a new perspective on life. Manjit said that she thought it was the best thing anyone could do if they have 1-2 hours to spare each week.
We thank the ladies for their time and we’re so pleased to hear how the benefits of befriending are working both ways.
We urgently require Befrienders to join our team as there is always a long waiting list. If you have a few hours a week to spare, please get in touch as we know many people who would really appreciate your time.
If you are interested in finding out more about Befriending please contact us