Befriending and Social Inclusion
1 to 1 support for Disabled people
Befriending
Our Befriending service links Disabled adults (18+) or those with long term health conditions with a volunteer ‘telefriender’. We aim to match people up who have with shared interests or experiences, or by listening to what someone finds important in a telefriend. Creating matches that work gives people the opportunity to speak about things that matter to them, helping with feelings of isolation and low mood.
Our service starts with a call once a week for 12 weeks.
We aim to support Disabled people and those with long term health conditions to build connections, discuss activities they could try out, and access further support when needed. As well as this, we take time to be there and listen without judgement.
Check you are eligible for the service. Do all of the following apply to you?:
- You are Disabled and/or have a long-term health condition;
- You feel isolated;
- You would like a friendly telephone call once a week with a volunteer (not a professional);
- You live in either Bristol, Bath and North East Somerset, South Gloucestershire or North Somerset
If you would like to make a self-referral or refer someone else with their permission you can follow this link.
If you would like to discuss Befriending please get in touch with Befriending Coordinator [email protected]
Are you interested in volunteering as a Befriender? Volunteering with us will give you the opportunity to make a positive impact on the lives of Disabled people. Your expenses will be paid, and you will receive training including: learning about the Social Model of Disability, safeguarding, empathy vs sympathy, listening skills and more. Volunteers are also offered free mental health training. You don’t need to have any previous experience.
If you would like to volunteer as a Befriender, please register your interest here.
