Volunteer Befriender

Who Are We?

Embracing Age is working towards a world where older people are valued, connected and full of hope, by combatting loneliness, mobilising volunteers, equipping churches and speaking out.

The Role: 

Older people in care homes are potentially some of the most vulnerable people in our society. Research shows that they are twice as likely to be lonely as older people living in the community.

The Volunteer Befriender role involves visiting and befriending an older person living in a care home, usually once a week for an hour. This might involve activities such as reading to them, or playing a game, chatting, or going for a walk.

Training and an induction is provided by Embracing Age and the Care Home for the role, with ongoing support from the Project Coordinator. This role is for those over the age of 18, although there may be some opportunities for those aged 16 - 18 with the appropriate support.

We ask volunteers to give 1-2 hours of their time a week, which will be dependent on each individual care home as to when they can accept volunteers.

1-2 hours per week.

What skills do I need?

• Be reliable.
• Have empathy and patience.
• Be friendly and approachable.
• Ability to listen and engage in conversation.