Befriending Networks 2026 Roadshow
In 2025, our team travelled around the UK to provide our Journey Across Befriending Roadshow events. We ventured to London, York, Glasgow, Cardiff, Aberdeen, and Tamworth, and provided three virtual events. These events were well-received, with 161 total attendees. Reviewing our event feedback, 96% of our attendees encouraged us to get back on the road in 2026. And we are doing just that!
Peer discussion was greatly organised. Very insightful! It’s lovely to realise that we all have similar difficulties and sharing ideas makes it easier. – Attendee 2025
In 2026, our team will travel to Cardiff, London, Edinburgh, Manchester, Belfast, and Glasgow. These events will be free to all, members and non-members. Our events will focus on three main topical discussion points.
- How do we recruit and retain volunteers?
- How can we improve our referrals?
- How do we protect our wellbeing?
Whether you are new in post or well established, there will be the opportunity to listen, learn, and share. For each discussion topic, attendees will have the opportunity to discuss their current procedures, give examples of good practice and improved approaches, and share tips and recommendations.
Our team will share five top tips for operations in each area of discussion, signposting resources and training that may benefit.
A big thanks to Befriending Networks for hosting the ‘Journey across befriending’ event, we were delighted to attend, meet and talk with so many others delivering befriending services. – Attendee 2025
Where can I join the Roadshow?
Our 2026 Roadshow will take place in six locations across the UK:
- Cardiff (Wednesday 25 February)
- London (Wednesday 25 March)
- Edinburgh (Wednesday 29 April)
- Manchester (Friday 8 May)
- Belfast (Wednesday 15 April)
- Glasgow (Thursday 11 June)
We will also be holding two online sessions (May and June) so that you can join us from anywhere in the world. If you are a member and would like to offer a venue for a future event, then please let us know.
How will our time be spent?
Each event will blend informal networking with structured peer discussions. There will be opportunities throughout the event to have refreshments, socialise with attendees, as well as compare projects, practice and share experience.
Befriending Networks will facilitate the discussion groups on our three chosen areas: volunteer recruitment and retention, referral procedures and wellbeing. These discussion points will be of interest whether you are part of a long-established project or just getting started. The format will be relaxed with plenty of interaction, where you can gain support and insight from one another.
Each event will be hosted by one or two of the Befriending Networks staff team and co-hosted by one of our experienced member organisations. Please see individual event listings for more information.
Missed our 2025 events?
You can access the resources and reflections from the 2025 Roadshow on our blog.
What is the cost?
The events are free to both members and non-members of Befriending Networks. We will provide refreshments throughout the afternoon, but ask that you bring your own lunch.
Booking opens soon!
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