Age UK Herts: Befriending
Visiting Scheme: Our volunteers provide friendship and a listening ear if you, or someone you know, would like some company. A carefully matched volunteer will visit you in your home once a week to share news, views and interests. Telephone Club :Our telephone club provides support and friendship over the phone. Our volunteers call you once a week for a friendly chat.
Remote
In-person
Further info
Eligibility Criteria – Please Read Before Submitting a Referral
We support older people (aged 50+) across East Hertfordshire and Broxbourne who are isolated, lonely, or housebound, and would benefit from regular social contact and companionship.
Please note:
- Our volunteers are not trained to support individuals who are experiencing a crisis with a mental health condition or living with advanced dementia. Unfortunately, we are unable to accept referrals where these conditions are a primary concern.
- The client must consent to this referral and be willing to engage with a befriending volunteer. We recognise that referrals often come from family members or carers, but the client’s participation must be voluntary.
- The home environment must be safe, hygienic, and suitable for a lone-working volunteer to visit. We rely on accurate risk information to safeguard both clients and volunteers.
- We do not provide carer respite or formal sitting services.
- Volunteers are matched to provide social connection – not personal care or household help.
Who can use this service?
Older people living in East Hertfordshire and Broxbourne who match the above criteria
How are services delivered?
Friendly chat via telephone or in person, once a week.
Locations