2026 Roadshow – Online May

Free

“Peer discussion was greatly organised. Very insightful! It’s lovely to realise that we all have similar difficulties, and sharing ideas makes it easier” — Roadshow attendee feedback

About the event

The Roadshow is your chance to be part of a peer-learning, inspiring and solution-packed gathering for all involved in befriending operations. After a highly successful UK tour in 2025 (where 96% of attendees asked us to hit the road again!), we’re back on tour and in 2026, these networking events will be bigger, with more time dedicated to impactful peer learning and discussions. Expect powerful conversations, real-world examples and solutions, and the kind of supportive networking that people rave about. Each event will be co-hosted by one of our fabulous members to ensure clear working examples are available alongside our guidance on good practice in befriending. 

In 2026, our Roadshow dives into three essential topics shaping befriending services right now through three topic questions:  

1. How do we recruit and retain volunteers?
2. How can we improve our referrals?
3. How do we protect our wellbeing?

Co-hosted with

Nottinghamshire Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust

offer a range of volunteering opportunities that support patients and service users across different care settings.

Their Volunteer Visitor Scheme provides one-to-one social support for patients within their secure forensic services (high, medium and low secure) who may have limited or no contact with people outside the hospital.

They also deliver a Conversation Partner Scheme, where trained volunteers support individuals to practise and develop communication skills. Find out more about them in our directory.

Event starts at 10am and ends at 12.30pm

Who is this event for?

These events are free for all. Whether you are brand new or deeply experienced, you’ll leave our event with:

• Fresh ideas from peers facing the same challenges.
• Examples of good practice you can implement.
• Five top tips from our team for each discussion theme.
• New connections that strengthen your work and your confidence.

As one attendee shared: “We were delighted to attend, meet and talk with so many others delivering befriending services.”

Cost

Roadshow events are free to both members and non-members of Befriending Networks.  

Questions?

Please get in touch with the event facilitator, sandra@befriending.co.uk

Event Facilitator

This event is facilitated by

Sandra

Membership Services Officer

Cancellation Policy: This event is a free event. We understand that circumstances can change. If you book to attend this event but can no longer attend, please inform the facilitator so that we can open your space to another attendee.

19 tickets available