b:friend aims to reduce social isolation in South Yorkshire. We would match you up with one of our isolated Older Neighbours and ask you to phone or visit each week to provide a little company to people who otherwise don't see many people.
What skills do I need?
Be friendly and warm. Feel comfortable starting conversations with somebody new. Be a good listener.
What will I gain?
You will learn about the real Sheffield. You will learn about the lives people of this city have lived. You will learn how to communicate with people generations older than you, about their lives, their challenges and the things that make them happy. You will gain a new friend.
Training and support
When you register with us we provide an induction, including information on safeguarding and data protection. Each volunteer is assigned to a volunteer coordinator who you may contact at any time with any concerns you may have. We have a confidential counselling service that all volunteers have access to.
Time commitment
We ask you to commit to at least an hour a week for an open ended period of time. We hope that our pairings develop into an organic friendship between you and the person we match you with.
DBS (criminal records) check
Yes
Location
In the Older Neighbour's home (when covid restrictions allow) or by telephone.
Travel information
Older Neighbours live throughout South Yorkshire. We try to pair you with someone living close to you. Travel would be down to yourself to arrange but expenses can be claimed back.