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 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.

Supporting individuals with dementia in their own home. Engaging in conversation and undertaking meaningful social activities. Befrienders would visit individuals with a diagnosis of dementia within their own home to undertake social conversation and support with social activities - reminisce, jigsaw, reading, puzzles, art/craft. Activities will be determined by both Befriender and Befriendee. This Befriending project will take place in and around the City of Dundee, Monday-Thursday.