Age UK Berkshire's Befriending Service offers friendly companionship and regular conversation for older people who would like a chat and a bit of company.
What we offer:
- Free befriending service for older people across Berkshire.
- Choose between face-to-face visits (available in Reading, Bracknell, and West Berkshire) or telephone befriending (available Berkshire-wide).
- Our dedicated volunteers are DBS-checked for your peace of mind.
- A Befriending Coordinator will visit you to learn about your interests and needs, and carefully match you with a suitable volunteer.
- We introduce you to your volunteer and help you decide how often you'd like to meet or chat—weekly, fortnightly, or monthly.
- We aim to build lasting, meaningful relationships that can continue for many months or even years.
- Your volunteer can also keep you informed about other Age UK Berkshire services, events, and activities if you wish.
Who is this service for?
- Any older person in Berkshire who would like regular company, either in person or by phone.
- Face-to-face befriending is available in Reading, Bracknell, and West Berkshire. Telephone befriending is available across Berkshire.
How to access the service:
- Contact us to discuss your needs and arrange an initial visit from our Befriending Coordinator.
- We will match you with a volunteer and support you throughout your befriending journey.
Cost: This service is free of charge.
Want to volunteer? We welcome new volunteers and provide full training. Volunteering is a rewarding way to build relationships and gain valuable experience.
Service statistics
Usually replies in
3 days
69%
of referrals accepted
Categories:
Connecting with others
Services for older people
Volunteering
Additional needs catered for:
Vision impairment friendly
Wheelchair accessible
Physical disability friendly
Takes place in the client’s home