We are looking for volunteer visitors to join the National Visitors Network, our national befriending scheme for older people that provides companionship to older people experiencing loneliness or social isolation. Befrienders visit older people in their homes and provide regular chat/conversations (weekly/fortnightly or monthly as determined). Full training and good ongoing support is provided to all volunteers. A great, enjoyable opportunity to help and make a real difference. For more details please contact: David Tickner Email: david.tickner@csrf.org.uk / tel.: 020 8691 7411

A Befriender volunteer carries out visits to and keeps in touch with members of the RAF Family (beneficiary), on behalf of the RAF Association. Befriender volunteers exist to provide companionship and outcome focussed support to a beneficiary and to ensure that they remain part of the community and feel socially connected to the wider RAF family. Befriender volunteers are required to : * Regularly meet with a beneficiary, either in their home or at a mutually agreed location * Listen to and engage with the beneficiary, promoting positive outlooks and raise self esteem * Work within the remit of the Befriending plan and promote activities to meet the identified outcomes. * Research into local community groups and activities to find relevant interests for the beneficiary. * Identify ways to connect with other beneficiaries to promote friendship groups. * Identify any additional areas of support and make referrals to the Area Welfare Manager (AWM) * Keep a note of visits undertaken, with recommendations and actions. Provide this information and regular updates to the AWM. Being a befriender volunteer could be about helping someone who is isolated through the use of social media or visiting an older person that has become increasingly lonely and isolated over time and to help find them new interests in the community. The role is varied, the service spans all ages and it is flexible to suit everyone.

A good befriending relationship can be as beneficial for the befriender and the befriendee. It is the need of everyone to have company and companionship in our life. If you can spare 2 hours per week to be a volunteer Companion/befriender, supporting older people in Dundee then please read on. There are many older people with limited family support, wanting social contact. This could be someone to talk to; share a joke or gossip with; share hobbies or interests; go for a walk; visit a local café. We are looking for volunteers, both male and female, who are friendly and tolerant with good communication skills and the ability to listen to others. A creative person who can come up with interesting ideas to overcome barriers, for example physical disability, reduced verbal communication skills, or the onset of dementia. Make a difference to somebodies life.

Dundee City Council Sheltered Housing Service provides housing and support services for older people throughout Dundee. Some tenants can become isolated in their own homes due to ill health or they may have lost contact with friends and family. Befrienders can offer companionship, encouragement and social contact through regular visits. Tenants can be encouraged to attend activities in the complex or in the local community. Activities can range from enjoying conversation over a cup of tea to accompanying the tenant on a short visit to a local place of interest.