We provide services like a free, confidential information and advice service for people aged 50 and over, their families, and carers. Age UK Birmingham also runs memory care services, a charity shop, ...
Volunteer Befriender (in-person) (Sandwell)
Practical details
Volunteering • Longer term volunteering
Contact person
Louise Crowther
Provided
#123450
Scan me or visit www.volunteerbrum.org/o/Age-UK-Sandwell/activities/Volunteer-Befriender-in-person-Sandwell/123450 to join
Help an older person build confidence, reconnect with their community and work towards greater independence via in-person, weekly befriending appointments
Key Information
Frequency: 1-2 hours per week
Intended Commitment: ~ 26 weeks (6 months)
Location: Various locations across Sandwell
The Role
• Meet regularly with an older person and help them identify a meaningful personal goal.
• Break the goal into small, manageable weekly steps.
• Offer encouragement, companionship and practical support.
• Help them explore local groups, activities, transport or digital opportunities.
• Support them to become confident enough to continue independently when the volunteering relationship ends.
Examples of goals could include joining a community group, using public transport, learning to make video calls or reconnecting with a favourite activity.
Personal qualities and skills
• Friendly, patient and encouraging
• A good listener and communicator
• Reliable and able to attend regularly
• Comfortable helping someone work towards agreed goals
• Able to motivate and support without taking over
• Understanding of professional boundaries and promoting independence
• Confident with basic IT, email and online searches
A driving licence and access to a car may be required, depending on the person’s location and support needs.
Commitment/Details
• Frequency: 1–2 hours per week
• Commitment: Approximately six months
• Location: Across Sandwell
• Expenses: Travel expenses reimbursed
• DBS: Enhanced DBS check required and arranged by us
What you will gain
• See the direct difference your support makes
• Develop skills in goal setting, mentoring and active listening
• Receive full induction and role-specific training
• Make a meaningful impact through a defined, short-term commitment
• Training in subjects such as Befriending, Loneliness and Isolation, Making Every Contact Count (MECC), Goal Setting, and more.
Related to
About Age UK Sandwell
We provide services like a free, confidential information and advice service for people aged 50 and over, their families, and carers. Age UK Birmingham also runs memory care services, a charity shop, and offers information and advice to improve the well-being of older residents.