Befrienders Needed – Help Later Life Feel Less Lonely
People’s worlds can become smaller later in life. Health issues, losing friends, and changes after retirement can mean people socialise less and feel increasingly isolated. We believe later life shouldn’t be a lonely life.
Through CareLink, our volunteers build trusted, supportive relationships with older people—mostly through regular telephone befriending calls—helping them remain healthy, independent, and connected in their own homes.
What Our Befriending Support Includes
Regular telephone calls at a set time each week
Being a friendly point of contact when someone doesn’t know where to turn
Identifying care or health concerns and referring to other services
Gentle reminders to take medication, attend appointments, stay warm, and eat and drink well
Helping people find local social activities and, where needed, offering initial encouragement to attend
The Befriender Volunteer Role
We’re looking for dedicated volunteers who can give a few hours a week to support older people at risk of social isolation.
As a Befriender, you may:
Provide companionship through telephone calls or home visits
Listen with interest and engage people in conversation
Help older people feel less lonely and more confident
Encourage attendance at social groups or one‑off events, if they wish
Complete monthly visit sheets and feedback to the Volunteer Coordinator
You will not be asked to provide personal care (such as feeding or washing) or medical advice.
This is a flexible role, shaped around how you want to help.
Skills & Experience We’re Looking For
Knowledge & Experience
First‑hand experience of life transitions (e.g. retirement, divorce)
Understanding how life events affect wellbeing
Willingness to learn about local services
Skills
Good listening and communication
Empathy and interest in older people
Non‑judgemental, encouraging approach
Respect for confidentiality
Honest, reliable, and flexible
What You’ll Gain
Training in active listening, social isolation, and signposting
Ongoing support from a dedicated staff member
Greater awareness of local services and activities
Opportunities to meet new people
Increased confidence and self‑esteem
New skills and experience to enhance your CV
The satisfaction of making a real difference in your community
Training, Support & Expenses
Full mandatory training before you start (including boundaries, confidentiality, and safeguarding)
Ongoing staff support throughout your volunteering
Reasonable expenses reimbursed, including travel and activity costs
If you enjoy listening, connecting with people, and helping others feel valued and supported, becoming a Befriender could make a lasting difference—both to someone else’s life and your own.