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Our Befriending Service provides someone to talk to, support to regain confidence in going out, a friendly telephone call or a penpal. - Befriending
Companionship for lonely and isolated older people who just need somebody to talk to - Respite Day Care
A safe, stimulating environment for your relative that encourages social interaction - Telephone Befriending
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Befriending Services
Our Befriending Service provides someone to talk to, support to regain confidence in going out, a friendly telephone call or a penpal.
Cost:Free
Available in:Darlington and 2 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 Befriending Services Service
Our Befriending Service 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.
Befriending is available in the following areas:
- Darlington - Darlington, Middleton St. George and the surrounding villages.
- Hambleton - Northallerton, Thirsk and areas nearby
- Richmondshire - Richmond, Catterick and areas nearby
Good Friends is joint-funded by the following organisations:
- Darlington Primary Care Network
- North Yorkshire County Council
Reducing loneliness
Reducing loneliness
How Befriending Helps
We match people in need of a little extra support to one of our volunteers 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
- Accompanying them to an activity in the community
- Putting someone in touch with nearby services
- Telephoning them for a chat or writing a regular letter
There are many more ways we can help too...
How can I get involved?
Our befriending service 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 co-ordinators 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.
Befriending Services Testimonials
Befriending Services 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: Closed
Sundays: 12PM - 2.30PM
