Volunteers are trained to support and befriend a lonely and isolated person, for periods of up to 2 hours on a regular basis. 

Skills and abilities needed 

• To have good listening and communication skills 
• To be non-judgmental in your attitude towards clients 

• To ensure that you are reliable and punctual when visiting clients and returning your monthly monitoring forms 
• To be conscientious with your volunteering and any follow up required for clients 
• Understanding and empathy for this vulnerable client group 
• Ability to work alone and cope well in one-to-one situations 
• Understanding of and willingness to work within the BEfriend framework including following policies and procedures 

Time commitment: 

Two hours per week 

Out of pocket expenses - travel and refreshments: 

We reimburse reasonable travel expenses against receipts and provide refreshments at training courses and meetings 

Benefits to volunteers 

Gaining experience and the satisfaction of helping others 

Training/Support 

Initially a one day Volunteers Induction training, then further training available

DBS - Disclosure barring checks 

An enhanced DBS check is required, which we organise and pay for.