Together Talks

Volunteer description

Together Talks Telephone Befriending Service is looking for people who would like to join us in helping to provide support to as many people as possible during challenging times. Telephone Befriending has the potential to be an important aspect of the overall approach to helping the most isolated and lonely individuals in our society. Telephone Befriending can also benefit the volunteer befrienders who are similarly able to reengage with their community and may derive health benefits from regular volunteering. Our aim is to alleviate feelings of anxiety, loneliness and isolation that may be experienced by many people across our communities, by contact from a volunteer befriender. If you’re a friendly person who likes talking to people, then this is the role for you.

What does a Volunteer Telephone Befriender do?

To telephone Befriendee’s at their home for around 10 -30 minutes. You will arrange the exact times of your future calls direct with the Befriendee’s. This could range from once a day to once a week, but individual needs will be matched with your availability 

To provide a telephone conversation, a listening ear and chat about interests and hobbies, helping to alleviate loneliness and feelings of isolation.

To provide companionship and human interaction at a time when this may be limited.

To provide an update after each call to the Together Talks support Team. This is so we can keep a track of the amount of befriending calls each volunteer is undertaking, the type of support being offered during these calls and if there is anything further required.

It is important to note telephone befriending is not counselling or therapy and other services must be sought if this is required.

Benefits

• Free DBS.
• Discounted food.
• Store discount.
• Work from home.
• Above all you will be making a positive difference in your befriendee’s life.
• As a volunteer telephone befriender, you will learn how to support others, make friends, become more confident, and practice communication skills.
• You will gain new and transferable skills. We offer support for you to increase your own job-readiness and personal development.
• Training opportunities,
• Volunteering experience
• Detailed references will be provided

How to apply

Volunteers (Befrienders) can be nationwide as this is volunteering on the telephone.

Simply send us an email of interest to befriending@thebridgeproject.org.uk & we will do the rest. We are also happy to complete the application form for you by you calling us on 01274 952 200.