This week is Befriending Week, a week to show the importance of befriending services and the valuable impact it can have to communities. It aims to reduce feelings of isolation by matching volunteers to vulnerable and older people.
This year has thrown us challenges in ways that many have not experienced before, whether that’s mentally, socially, or even physically. With another lockdown coming into effect, positive mental health needs to be preserved and made top priority amongst communities. The Canterbury and Herne Bay Volunteer Centre are looking for volunteers to be telephone befrienders, to build up ongoing relationships with elderly residents.
Although this may seem to be more of a benefit to your ‘befriendee’, it is almost guaranteed you will reap benefits too. You will be conversing with someone new, sharing life stories and be developing a friendship. Amongst knowing you are providing meaningful support to someone; it may also give you something to look forward to in these unusual times. Loneliness doesn’t discriminate, it can affect everyone.
Another option is the centre is also looking for drivers, to transport older people to medical and social appointments. During the lockdown, it will be strictly medical appointments, but even whilst you drive you are allowing valuable social interaction that could make someone’s day.
If you feel you are kind, patient, caring, and willing to give your time to someone in need, don’t hesitate to contact the centre with your CV and a reference!
Be part of our team at the CHB Volunteer Centre. Click on our offers below for more information.
You can apply directly on the link above or contact us HERE
Written by virtual volunteer Emily Clugston
