Volunteer Befrienders provide telephone or face to face support for lonely/isolated residents of Hartlepool who live alone, building their confidence to access social groups and get out and about in the community.

What You'll Do: 

Loneliness and isolation can result in a decline in an individual’s physical and mental health, which can result in risks to the individual’s safety such as the inability to self-rescue in the case of a fire.  If we can reduce loneliness and isolation, we can increase safety and reduce risk.   

 

Volunteer Befrienders telephone or meet with their matched person, typically on a weekly basis, with the aim of reducing loneliness and isolation and to improve their well-being.   

 

Initially, volunteers may be visiting clients in their home for a friendly chat over a cup of tea and will hopefully build to accompanying clients on short walks, outings or to attend local social groups. With the intention of building the client’s confidence to participate in these activities unaccompanied and perhaps eventually become volunteers themselves.

 

There is also opportunity for volunteers to support the Befriending Service in delivering activities for our clients to attend in the community.

Why You'll Love It: 
This is a great opportunity to support your local community and make a real difference to people's lives.  You will build new relationships, have access to training and support, and be able to develop your skills and experience for your future career.  References are available for future opportunities that you want to pursue.   
What You'll Learn: 
Volunteers will be required to complete induction training, which includes information on record keeping, professional boundaries and confidentiality.  Volunteers are also required to complete safeguarding training prior to being matched with a client.    This is also a great opportunity to develop skills, knowledge and experience in working with socially excluded members of the community.   
What We're Looking For: 
Potential volunteers must be able to provide a commitment of 1 hour per week minimum, ideally for a minimum of 1 year.  Volunteers must enjoy working with people, be a good listener, reliable, committed and caring, have excellent English language skills, and have the confidence to be able to support clients 1:1.    Potential volunteers will be required to complete the volunteer registration form, have a telephone or face to face interview, undergo a DBS check and provide 2 references in the application process. 
Summary
Volunteering
Community
Social Care
Older People
Disability
Health
Hartlepool
52 Weeks Minimum
1 Hours / Week
Skills you will develop: 
Active listening
Empathy
Interpersonal / Confidence
Requirements: 
DBS check
Over 18
Phone Interview
Training

Similar Opportunities

 
Newsletter Volunteer
National Childbirth Trust
Min. weeks
Newsletter Volunteer
Volunteering

We're looking for a creative and organised Newsletter Volunteer to produce our local newsletter for members, parents, and other relevant individuals.

 
Volunteer First Aid Coordinator
National Childbirth Trust
Min. weeks
Volunteer First Aid Coordinator
Volunteering

We're looking for a Volunteer First Aid Coordinator to manage and promote our First Aid courses. This is a remote administrative role that's perfect for someone who enjoys working independently to make a real difference in their community.

 
NCT Walk & Talk Volunteer
National Childbirth Trust
Min. weeks
NCT Walk & Talk Volunteer
Volunteering

As a Walk & Talk Volunteer, you'll play a vital role in creating an inclusive and friendly space for parents in your area. You'll either set up a brand-new Walk & Talk group or help support an existing one.

Related Articles

Volun-tees
January Newsletter
Happy New Year 2025! I hope have had enjoyed the festivities and you are enjoying the Winter Break,
Volun-tees
February Newsletter
February Newsletter! Welcome!
Volun-tees
Spring 2025 Newsletter
Spring 2025 Newsletter!