Demand for our befriending service is growing, as we receive more and more referrals from social services, GPs and concerned family and friends. The people who are referred to us are lonely and often isolated. They need company and conversation to make them feel socially connected and part of their local community. We are keen to recruit enthusiastic and friendly volunteers to join our existing team of volunteers so that we can support as many people as possible.
The role involves:
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regular home visits on your own to an older person. This will be at a time and day arranged with the older person or their carer
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The most important thing about being a befriender is to simply provide regular company with the main aim of reducing social isolation. Activities could include a chat and a cup of tea, going out for a short walk or a local shopping trip, playing games or watching TV/a film together. This will depend on the individual and what they are comfortable with doing
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encouraging an older person to join Link Age Southwark’s activity groups
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keeping in touch with the team at Link Age Southwark regarding your visits and the wellbeing of the person you are visiting