Befriender
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Scan me or visit www.getinvolvednorfolk.org.uk/o/CAN-Connect/opportunities/Telephone-Befriender/54001 to join
Contact person
Summary
Bring joy and happiness to people who are experiencing loneliness and isolation. Befrienders can provide face to face company, or offer telephone support.Detailed description
In England, 7.3% of adults often or always feel lonely. CAN Connect is a charity service that supports people (18+) experiencing loneliness and isolation in Breckland and North Norfolk, by helping them build new connections, increase their confidence, and explore activities in their local communities.
Our service provides one-to-one support by a small team of Life Connectors, however, we also rely on the valuable support of volunteer befrienders. Befrienders are matched with someone with similar interests and can offer telephone or face-to-face support. Here are some examples of ways you can support your match.
- Calling them or visiting them at home.
- Going out for walks.
- Going out for tea, coffee, or even bingo!
- Accompanying them to groups or activities they might want to try.
Take a look at one of our volunteer befrienders has to say:
Volunteering has been an absolute joy. To me, it is like checking in with a friend, making sure they are well, happy and supported. I feel content when I have made my weekly phone call; it is the best feeling being able to come away from the call knowing I have made a difference. Rosie.
Qualities required for the position:
- Active listening.
- Positive attitude.
- Being patient and reliable.
- Friendly manner and enjoy talking to people.
Responsibilities include:
- Committing to either call or visit the person you are assigned to.
- Informing either the client or the volunteer coordinator if you are not able to make the call or visit you have scheduled.
- Keeping the Volunteer Co-ordinator updated and sending a monthly report of your activities.