Befriending Service
Befriending service
Our befriending service is for our elderly carers, many of whom look after ill, frail, disabled or disadvantaged loved ones
Carers receive a regular visit by a ‘friend’ for a coffee and a chat about whatever they choose, allowing them to enjoy a brief respite from their caring role. We help introduce carers to events and activities that may interest the local community. We carefully interview and take up full references before we match a volunteer befriender to you. Each befriending session is limited to 10 weeks.
Our trained volunteers visit them once a week for one hour for ten sessions. They share stories and build bonds. These visits happen at the carers’ home, a café or in our office.
Volunteering as a befriender is hugely rewarding. And for the carer it is often their only connection with the outside world.
At the end of 10 weeks, we ask carers to reflect on their befriending journey with the volunteer, what they gained, how it impacted them. Here are some of their comments:
- “I had given up work after 40 years and lost contact with all my friends and felt lonely. This service really helped me. I felt less lonely and really looked forward to the visit.”
- “My befriender gave me the strength to ask for help when I needed it.”
- “My volunteer helped me see that self-care is important.”
- “My volunteer helped me to combat my depression.”
- “Being with someone caring, acknowledging, knowing how I feel is great.”
- “Talking in a safe environment without being judged is precious.”
So why hesitate? For more information please contact: Kalpana Mehta, Befrienders Coordinator kalpana.mehta@harrowcarers.org 07719 068413 / 02088 685224
Volunteers Needed
We are looking for volunteers, who have a couple of hours a week to give back to the community. This is a unique opportunity to get a glimpse into our carers’ lives and understand the challenges they may face. Please complete the application form and email it to kalpana.mehta@harrowcarers.org or if you would like more details, please contact: Kalpana Mehta, Befrienders Co-ordinator, Tel: 07719 068413 / 02088 685224
“They really have been a lifeline – lifesavers! We badly needed their help to get the services and support. But most importantly they have been talking to my mother and helping her cope, and me cope as a carer.”
– Mukesh
“They really have been a lifeline – lifesavers! We badly needed their help to get the services and support. But most importantly they have been talking to my mother and helping her cope, and me cope as a carer.”
– Mukesh
