Throughout our network lives are being changed by befriending. These case studies capture the relationships and impact that befriending creates. Each unique story celebrates the importance of meaningful connection.
Befriending Week 2025 case studies
“I get as much out of our friendship as Kevin does.” / The Befriending Scheme
Listen The Befriending Scheme provides friendship and learning opportunities for vulnerable people over 16 years old across Suffolk, including those… Read more
“Now I don’t feel my age at all” / Vintage Vibes
Listen Vintage Vibes is an award-winning charity tackling isolation and loneliness in Edinburgh. They create long-lasting one-to-one friendships offering support,… Read more
“Let love lead, always” / ALONE
Listen ALONE’s Support & Befriending service supports older people in Ireland to find companionship, solve their everyday problems, and attend… Read more
“Befriending is what everybody needs to grow” / Bramber Bakehouse
Listen Bramber Bakehouse is an award-winning charity based in Sussex. They support women who have experienced gender-based violence, abuse, exploitation… Read more
“Time flies when you’re having fun… it certainly does for our calls!” / Sightline
Jacqueline tells us about her match with Julie and the joy she gets from their weekly phone calls. Read more
“Something as simple as colouring can bring so much joy” / Bright Futures UK
The story of Melina and her befriender Maddie, whose regular calls provided companionship and consistency while Melina underwent treatment. Read more
“With my befriender, I can just be myself” / Together Co
The story of Steve and his befriender Peter, who bonded over sharing stories and a love of schnauzers. Read morePrevious Befriending Week case studies
Case Study: b:friend
The story of Shane and Sue, who found friendship after losing close family members. Read more
Case Study: Sheffield CCCC
Lyn and Becca bonded over a shared love of Downton Abbey and many other things. Read more
Case Study: Carers Leeds
The Carers Leeds digital inclusion programme has helped a carer to feel more connected and confident. Read more
Case Study: COVEY
Meet Ruaridh, a young carer who got a lot from his experience with the COVEY Connect group. Read more
Case Study: Monifieth Befrienders
This case study demonstrates how volunteering your time with a befriending project can make a real difference in people’s lives. Read more
Case Study: Volunteer Centre Greenwich
The story of Avril, who discovered a new sense of connection through group activities and social gatherings. Read more
Case Study: Befriending Caithness
The story of a match between two avid fishermen whose friendship developed with each visit. Read more
Case Study: Age Cymru Powys
Mae siarad mewn mamiaith yn ffordd bwerus o adeiladu cysylltiadau ar unwaith. Speaking our native language helps build connections. Read more
Case Study: The Link Visiting Scheme
Their case study tells Violet’s story, and how her befriender Sam helped her feel more seen and valued. Read more
Case Study: Ray of Light Cancer Support
Befriending helped lung cancer patient John open up about his struggles and feel less isolated. Read more
Case Study: Epilepsy Action
Hear one person’s story of how befriending helped them find strength as they got to know more about their epilepsy. Read more
Case Study: Mind in Harrogate District
Learn how befriending can help people experiencing mental health issues to feel understood, valued and seen. Read more
Case Study: Together Co
Meet Natasha and Jeanette and hear about their journey to get to know each other. Read more
Case study: Voluntary Support North Surrey
The story of Karen and Joyce and the difference that 1:1 and group befriending can make. Read more
Case Study: Basingstoke NeighbourCare
Bill struggled adapting to a life-altering injury but his befriending match with Jane helped him feel less isolated. Read more