Always on
This project successfully funded on 15th December 2021, you can still support them with a donation.
Companionship Matters. Befriending Older People
Glasgow, East Renfrewshire Council, United Kingdom
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Aim: Our wonderful volunteer befrienders are making a big difference for isolated older people. They bring chat, smiles, and sometimes dogs!
“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.