“When (my wife) passed away… You have no idea the change when you're used to living together and then you end up alone. We spend nearly an hour talking, he always sounds as if he's full of energy and ready to do things. We have a good laugh together.”  (Project Beneficiary)

Mearns Kirk Helping Hands Befriending Project launched in November 2021, initially as a one year pilot. We currently provide befriending support to 22 older, isolated people in East Renfrewshire.  We receive more referrals every week, and we want to be able to meet this demand. We know anybody can feel lonely, but the effects of Covid have been particularly hard for older people. Increased isolation as a result of shielding or being worried about going out has sometimes led to loss of confidence and reduced social contact with others.

Our team of 19 befriender volunteers bring so much to the lives of isolated older people in our community. Regular visits at home, or going out for a coffee or a walk together, mean that older people in our community feel less alone.

And our volunteers get a lot out of feeling like they are making a difference:

“I have gained a new friendship with one of the loveliest ladies and I know for a fact this would never have happened if I did not volunteer. All in all, it has been such a rewarding experience” (Project Volunteer)

How you can help

By donating to our Befriending Project, you can help us to keep providing this much needed service.  Your donation will help us to advertise the service, making sure the most isolated older people know we are here.  Donations will also help us  support our volunteers, contributing towards costs for training, transport and equipment like mobile phones and face masks.

You can also help by spreading the word about the Project.  We want to make sure that those who need us most know we are here.  You are very welcome to get in touch with us for leaflets or more information.

We are also always interested in hearing from people who might want to get involved as a befriending volunteer!  If you think you could make a difference to older people in our community, please get in touch.

And there's more...

Thanks to the National Emergencies Trust Local Action Fund, every donation made to this campaign will be doubled!  That means if you give £10, we will receive £20. So it really couldn't be a better opportunity to donate to us.