- About us
- Our Services
- Good Friends
Good Friends is about creating a network of informal volunteers who share their time with people in need of extra support - Health & Wellbeing Activities
A range of groups and activities to help you to stay healthy as you get older - Befriending
Companionship for lonely and isolated older people who just need somebody to talk to - Computing & Internet
Volunteer-led sessions to help older people get online and stay safe - Respite Day Care
A safe, stimulating environment for your relative that encourages social interaction - Veterans Support Service
A range of specialist services tailored to the needs of veterans in Darlington - Information & Advice
Offering free, confidential advice around benefits, housing and more - Ex Forces Support
Telephone befriending, support, signposting & guidance for older veterans across North Yorkshire - Living With and Beyond Cancer
We're supporting older people to live well after cancer diagnosis with a package of support, advice and services. - Community Minibus
Low-cost Minibus hire for community groups, with drivers available - Café Refresh
Providing nutritious meals in a sociable, volunteer-led environment - Three 4 Darlington
Three 4 Darlington is an information hub open for the public to receive advice and support on a range of topics in the Town Centre. - The Swadford Centre
Based in the heart of Skipton, The Swadford is a welcoming environment to enjoy tasty meals and socialise. We also offer Room Hire from the Centre.
Health & WellbeingSupport & AdviceCommunity - Good Friends
- Activities & Events
- Special Events
Extra special one-off events not to be missed, ranging from event days to fundraisers. - Classes & Activities
Ranging from dance classes, to art, IT and music, there's sure to be something for you. - Support Groups
There's a peer support group for everyone, from stroke club to veterans group. - Lunch Clubs
Our lunch clubs offer nutritious, sociable lunches in a relaxed setting.
What's OnTypes of ActivityBrowse by AreaBrowse by Keyword - Special Events
- Get Involved
Good Friends
Good Friends is about creating a network of informal volunteers who share their time with people in need of extra support
Cost:Free
Available in:Hambleton and 3 other areas
- Matches an individual with someone nearby, based on their interests and needs
- Makes initial introductions where needed to ensure both the recipient and volunteer is happy
- Keeps in touch for updates on how both parties are getting on and what else we might be able to help with
- Provides additional support where needed in other areas, such as helping with information and advice, signposting and referrals and help with finding activities in the area
About the Good Friends Service
Good Friends is about creating a network of informal volunteers who share their time to help local people in need.
Loneliness is an increasing problem in society today, particularly for older and vulnerable people.
Half a million people across the UK go at least 5 days without seeing anyone and 60% of people in North Yorkshire & Darlington are considered to be at a medium to high risk of loneliness.
We're encouraging local people to commit a small amount of time each week to help someone near them in need. It's all about building back a sense of community in an increasingly isolated world.
Good Friends is available in the following areas:
- Craven - Skipton, Settle and areas nearby
- Darlington - Including surrounding villages
- Hambleton - Northallerton, Thirsk and areas nearby
- Richmondshire - Richmond, Catterick and areas nearby
Good Friends is joint-funded by the following organisations:
- North Yorkshire County Council
- Darlington Borough Council
- NHS Darlington Clinical Commissioning Group
- Ron Hogg, Durham Police, Crime & Victims Commissioner
Community social support
Reducing loneliness
Help with everyday tasks
How Good Friends Helps
We match people in need of a little extra support to one of our Good Friends volunteers based on factors such as their needs and interests who can help with a range of issues they may be facing.
These can include:
- Popping round for a cup of tea and a chat
- Going along to an activity in the community
- Assisting with light household tasks
- Putting someone in touch with nearby services
- Help with walking the dog if they're unable to
- Keeping in touch to check someone is OK
There are many more ways we can help too...
How can I get involved?
We're on a mission to ensure everyone in North Yorkshire & Darlington gets the support that they need, and it all starts with you.
Good Friends offers a fantastic way to put back into your community and support someone nearby in need of help. The level of support you wish to commit is entirely your choice - as little as half an hour a week can make a big difference in the life of an older or vulnerable person.
Our connectors will work with you to match you, based on your interests and abilities, to people within your area. They also offer support and advice so you'll will never feel like you're dealing with situations alone.
Here are some great reasons to get involved:
- Directly support people in need of support within your community, making an invaluable contribution.
- Meet new people and socialise with like-minded individuals
- Learn new skills, improve your CV with volunteering and take optional training
- Feel valued and be part of an award-winning team.
Join a team with award-winning experience in voluntary work and discover a new you.
Did you know?
46% of older people live alone in North Yorkshire & Darlington and 60% are considered to be at medium to high risk of loneliness.
Good Friends Testimonials
Good Friends Location & Contacts
This service operates from:
Bradbury House
Age UK Darlington,
Bradbury House,
Beaumont Street West,
Darlington
DL1 5SX
Monday to Friday: 8:30AM - 4PM
Saturdays: 10AM - 2PM
Sundays: 12PM - 2.30PM
