Befriending
Our Befriending Scheme offers support and companionship to community members experiencing loneliness or social isolation. We aim to foster a positive, mutually beneficial relationship where volunteers provide their time to improve the well-being and outlook of those they befriend. The scheme targets improving well-being by alleviating loneliness and isolation, considering factors like age, location, health status, and existing support levels.
Is Befriending Right for You?
Befriending can be in-person or via telephone. However, it may not be suitable for everyone. Upon request for service, the Pershore Plus team will contact the individual to understand their needs and provide details about the scheme, the volunteer's role, and other relevant information.
During the initial call, the team discusses:
- How the scheme works
- Volunteer roles and responsibilities
- Confidentiality and boundaries
- Procedures for reporting issues and appointment cancellations
- Support available
- Matching process
- Next steps
Matching Process
The aim is to ensure compatibility between the volunteer and the client based on needs, interests, and preferences. Matches are made based on the initial assessment call. Matching may take time, and clients are kept informed. We will accommodate specific requests where possible, though this may cause delays; clients are encouraged to try alternative pairings to reduce wait times. Each match is reviewed initially after 1-2 weeks, and then again at 6-12 weeks. Partnerships are expected to last up to six months, though this is flexible.
Factors Considered in Matching:
- Client's needs
- Aim of the scheme
- Protected characteristics
- Volunteer skills and experience
- Personalities and common interests
- Opinions of carers and relatives
- Volunteer availability
For those interested in joining the scheme or volunteering, Pershore Plus Volunteer Centre welcomes you to reach out and become part of this impactful initiative! Use the form below to get in touch.
Get In Touch
As a community organisation we are delighted to help you to access our services.
Pershore Plus Volunteer Centre, 1 Billing House, Pershore, WR10 1EY