Age UK Berkshire's Befriending Service offers friendly companionship to older people who would like a chat and a bit of company. Our service is free and designed to help reduce loneliness and social isolation among older adults across Berkshire.
We provide two types of befriending:
- Face-to-face visits in your own home (available in Reading, Bracknell, and West Berkshire)
- Telephone befriending (available Berkshire-wide) for those who prefer regular chats over the phone
Our dedicated volunteers are Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) checked for your safety. The process is simple and supportive:
- A Befriending Coordinator will visit you to learn about your interests and needs
- We carefully match you with a volunteer who shares your interests
- We introduce you to your volunteer and help you agree on how often you’d like to meet or chat (weekly, fortnightly, or monthly)
- Your volunteer can also keep you informed about other Age UK Berkshire services and activities
Who is this service for?
- Any older person in Berkshire who would like regular company, either in person or by phone
How to access the service:
- Contact us by phone or email to discuss your needs
- Our team will guide you through the next steps and arrange a coordinator visit
Interested in volunteering? We welcome new volunteers and provide full training, ongoing support, and the chance to build a rewarding relationship with an older person in your community.
Cost: This service is free of charge.
Service statistics
Usually replies in
3 days
71%
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