Linking Lives Befriending Service
Linking Lives Befriending Service has been supporting the lonely and socially isolated in Bedford Borough for almost five years. It started coincidentally at the start of the first Covid 19 lockdown. With the service growing every year, whether due to the residual effects of Covid 19, the state of the economy or our ever-changing family dynamics, we help to provide a valued service for those who are referred to us. We have had a Befriender (volunteer) and Link Friend (service user) go to the theatre together, others meet up for tea, cake and a chat in a local café or just go for a walk together in the sunshine, while some just stay at home and chat or talk over the phone.
What does a Befriending volunteer do?
- Weekly on to one visits or calls
- Be a positive influence
- Listens and encourages
What skills will I need?
- Be a good listener
- Be non-judgemental
- Be aware of confidentiality
- Have an understanding of the stresses of life
Our volunteers come from a wide range of backgrounds and experiences, but all have the desire to give something back. We offer training to our volunteers, as well as full BDS checks and are fully supported whilst visiting and phoning throughout their time with the service. Those who visit give an hour of their time every week, whilst those who telephone befriend spend about 30minutes. One of our Link Friends has recently said ‘If I didn’t have a Befriender, things would be devastating for me. Before having a Befriender, my isolation and loneliness were off the scale.’ A Befriender recently said, ‘Thank you for finding the perfect Link Friend for me.’
If this sounds like something you might be interested in, then please contact us on 07775607215 or email befriending@woodsidechurch.com and we will contact you. You can also apply for this role via Simply Connect.
