Befriending

Age UK Redbridge, Barking & Havering runs a volunteer-based befriending service for older people who are isolated. The service is available to residents in all three boroughs (Redbridge, Barking & Dagenham, and Havering). There are two main strands: Telephone Befriending and Visiting Befriending. Telephone Befriending provides a weekday morning call from a volunteer who chats, checks wellbeing, and, if needed, can be referred to appropriate services by staff. Visiting Befriending involves a volunteer visiting the older person at home for about an hour for a cup of tea and a chat. To be eligible, individuals should have no more than three contacts per week with other services, have few visitors, and be unable to attend other social provision such as day centres. Referrals are accepted from other agencies or directly from the older person or family. The service is funded by grants (including from the National Lottery Community Fund) and has been recognised with awards such as the Queen’s Award for Voluntary Service. Referrals can be made via a referral form and volunteering is encouraged (admin@ageukrbh.org.uk). Price: Free.