Befriender – Mental Health (Ealing and Hounslow)

Our Linked Minds Befriending Project supports people who are socially isolated in Ealing and Hounslow due to a diagnosed mental health problem.

This is an opportunity to become a Linked Minds Befriender.

On completion of thorough mental health training, Befrienders are matched with someone suitable, by a Co-ordinator who then acts as a (non-clinical) supervisor for the befriending period, which is limited to a year. Befriender, client and supervisor make a plan together with some goals to work towards. 

The Befriender makes a weekly 1-2 hour visit to the client's home, where they might stay in and chat over a cup of tea or, where possible, go out for a walk together, visit a cafe or undertake a local activity. 

These visits make such a difference for the client, increasing their confidence and helping them explore and work towards their goals, which might include getting a job, joining a club, or meeting other people.

The aim is that, by the end of the year, clients feel better about themselves, more valued, resilient, empowered, more linked to their community and better equipped for their journeys in recovery. 

But volunteering with BEfriend not only enriches the lives of those who are socially isolated, it also offers immense personal rewards.

As a Befriender, you’ll get to know inspirational people with fascinating stories, develop new skills and be part of a supportive team that values compassion and connection.

Where applicable, the Linked Minds Befriender role can form part of a placement.

What skills do I need?

Personal Qualities:

● To be passionate about supporting individuals affected by mental health problems to achieve life-changing goals.

● To be inspiring, creative and motivational in your support.

● To be non-judgemental, genuine and empathic.

● To see beyond the diagnosis to the person.

● To help clients feel valued and valid.

● To enable clients to have hope in the future.

● To be a good listener.

If the Befriender is studying psychotherapy or counselling, this can go towards continuous professional development.

When do I need to be available?

	Morning	Afternoon	Evening
Monday
Tuesday
Wednesday
Thursday
Friday
Saturday
Sunday

Details

Visits are 1-2 hours per week at a time to suit the client and volunteer and take place at the client's home or another mutually convenient location (such as a local café) in Ealing or Hounslow.