Befriending

Befrienders are “professional friends”  they are there to share time with you.  Perhaps meeting for a coffee, going for a walk, or just having a good chat about anything other than your Caring role.

A befriender relationship is similar to a friendship, however the relationship has been brought together by an organisation and there are some rules in place.  The Befriender has provided references, and has been DBS checked.  They are provided training and support through the service which has set the relationship up. In this case, The Carers’ Support Service and Dementia Direct.

Most of us have friends and family but do not always feel that we can talk to them, or feel that they are just too busy to meet up. A befriender is someone in whom you can confide, knowing that you will not be judged or criticised and that your feelings and opinions are important.

Befrienders can also help if you don’t have the confidence to go to a group or workshop on your own. If you find it hard to leave your home alone, a befriender can support you.

Meeting up with a befriender once or twice a month can help build your confidence and help you to feel less lonely and isolated.

Alternatively, being the “Befriender”  can provide you as much enjoyment as receiving the support.  Should you feel that you have the time to volunteer, our team of Befrienders is always looking to expand.  Please contact us on 01652 650585 and we will be happy to answer any questions that you have.