One to One Befriending
Friendship that changes lives
This is where Befriended began in 2017, with a group of incredible volunteers who gave up an hour each week to visit an elderly, lonely person and spend time with them chatting and getting to know them. Some of our volunteers take their Befriendee out to the local garden centre or just to the park. We are keen to match our Befriendees with Befrienders who have similar interests or hobbies so that they have something in common and something to talk about right from the get-go.
About One to One Befriending
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Many people experience ongoing loneliness and isolation due to changes in life circumstances, living circumstances or health.
Without regular contact, individuals can feel disconnected, invisible, and unsupported — which can have a significant impact on mental and emotional wellbeing.
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Face-to-face befriending is where individuals are matched with a trained volunteer befriender.
Through regular visits, they build a trusted relationship based on companionship, conversation, and shared interests. The focus is on being present, listening, and forming a genuine friendship.
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This service is for people who:
Feel lonely or socially isolated
Have limited social contact
May struggle to access community activities
Would benefit from regular companionship
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Reduce loneliness and social isolation
Build meaningful, trusting relationships
Improve emotional wellbeing
Increase confidence and sense of belonging
Provide consistent, reliable social contact
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One-to-one support
Regular in-person visits (e.g. weekly or fortnightly)
Delivered by trained, supported volunteers
Flexible and person-centred
Can take place at home or in the community
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People who take part often:
Feel less alone and more connected
Look forward to regular visits
Build confidence and trust
Experience improved mood and wellbeing
“Having someone visit regularly has made such a difference. I feel like I matter again.”
Request a One-to-One Befriender
Befriended is looking for partnership funding to facilitate the rollout of this activity.
If you or your organisation are interested in supporting this project, please contact Gail Millar, CEO of Befriended.