Befriender (Ealing and Hounslow)

Our core Befriending Project supports people who are socially isolated in Ealing and Hounslow. They may have a physical or sensory disability, or they may have mild dementia, and are sometimes housebound. 

This is an opportunity to become a Befriender.

On completion of the training, Befrienders are matched with someone suitable. 

They make 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 café or undertake a local activity. 

These visits make such a difference for the client, but volunteering with BEfriend not only enriches the lives of those who are isolated, but 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.

What skills do I need?

The abilities, qualities and skills we seek from a volunteer are:

● To have good listening and communication skills.

● To be non-judgmental in your attitude towards clients.

● To ensure that you are reliable and punctual when visiting clients and returning your monthly monitoring forms

● To be conscientious with your volunteering and any follow up required for clients

● To have an understanding and empathy for this vulnerable client group

● Ability to work alone and cope well in one-to-one situations

● Understanding of and willingness to work within the BEfriend framework including following policies and procedures

● To be available once a week for up to two hours to visit your client

No particular experience is required to become a volunteer with BEfriend

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.