WHAT IS BEFRIENDING?
Befriending is a lot different to mentoring and is more focused upon a long-term relationship and is not necessarily outcome driven.
Befriending has softer boundaries and often clients can develop meaningful friendships with our volunteers over time.
Befriending is less formal and boundaries are agreed between the client and volunteer, for example, a volunteer may be linked with an older person who is in need of transport to attend social activities.
Loneliness is a day-to-day problem for people who are estranged from their former support networks, friends or relatives (Windle, Francis & Coomber, 2011).
For those living with long-term conditions, then befriending can be invaluable in the management of their condition, as social factors significantly influence health, for example, loneliness and isolation can be a determinant of depression (Nesta, 2013).
THE PROCESS
REFERRAL and ASSESSMENT
Upon receiving your referral a member of our team will come out to complete an assessment with you. This assessment will focus upon questions to establish your likes, dislikes and goals for the befriending relationship, for example, connecting you to specific groups or activities.
MATCHING
Once we have reviewed your assessment, you will be matched with a befriender who we feel will best meet your needs. We will arrange for you to meet your befriender at a location that is mutually convenient for your both.
MEETING
You will meet your befriender and work with them and generate a support plan. This may include transportation if required.
ENDING
It is down to you, when the relationship ends. We appreciate that once you feel re-connected with others, then you may not feel the need to continue with support.