What’s on this Befriending Week

15th October 2026

Befriending Week is all about celebrating the amazing things that happen when we come together to build meaningful connections with each other. This year, there are lots of opportunities to join your community to mark Befriending Week. We can’t wait to celebrate with you!

Befriending Networks events

Connect Over a Cuppa Befrienders Social

Tuesday 3 November, 12:30 – 13:30

Our popular virtual gathering for volunteer befrienders is back for 2026. Volunteers are invited to grab a brew and join us online for a friendly online session where they can connect with other befrienders, share stories, and reflect on the difference their time and kindness make.

Annual Conference and AGM

Wednesday 4 November, 10:00 – 13:00

One of the highlights of the year at Befriending Networks is our Annual Conference, when we get to connect with our members to recognise befriending’s impact, share insights and build a stronger network of support for befriending organisations.

Places are limited, so members are encouraged to secure their spot early!

Partner events

A huge thank you to our Befriending Week partners, who will be offering some very special free events to celebrate!

Befriending Week at the London Cable Cars

Monday 2 – Friday 6 November

For Befriending Week 2026, we’re partnering with Transport for London (TfL) again to offer an experience on the London Cable Car that celebrates the power of conversation and social connection.

Danny Price, Director of Sponsored Services said:

“Transport for London plays a vital role in keeping Londoners connected to the places and people they love. By bringing people together 90 metres above the Thames for Befriending Week, we hope to show how simple it can be to start a conversation and turn a daily journey into a meaningful connection.”

As part of the launch of Befriending Week on Monday 2 November, TfL are partnering with Befriending Networks members Volunteer Centre Greenwich, who will be hosting a Games and Connections event in the Cable Car Experience café. This event is designed to bring people together in a relaxed and friendly environment, with board games, conversation, and opportunities to build new friendships.

Please note that the free London Cable Car rides are fully booked.

Free concerts at Manchester’s Stoller Hall

We’re delighted to partner with Stoller Hall, the spectacular concert hall in the heart of Manchester, to offer some special free Befriending Week events.

• Relaxed Lunchtime Concert | Wednesday 4 November, 13:30
  Enjoy classical music performed by talented young musicians from Chetham’s School of Music, in a relaxed and friendly space with no dress code, easy access, and flexible seating. Enjoy good company, music for everyone, and a free brew and biscuit.
• Friday Night Jazz | Friday 6 November, 17:00 – 19:00
  Drop in and enjoy a relaxing drink in the Stoller Hall Atrium while listening to free live jazz music from talented students on the Chetham’s School of Music jazz course, as well as other local jazz musicians.

Anna Carley, Creative Engagement Producer at Stoller Hall and Chetham’s, is excited to support the campaign:

“At Stoller Hall and Chetham’s, we believe music, creativity and culture can unite people together and support their health and wellbeing. As part of Befriending Week, we are delighted to offer free Relaxed Concerts, providing a welcoming and accessible opportunity for people to come together and experience the joy of live classical and jazz music.”

Member and supporter events

During Befriending Week, our members and supporters hold events for their own communities, highlighting the incredible work their befriending teams do. Search our directory to discover organisations near you and check out what they’ve got planned for Befriending Week.

Organisations can also share what their Befriending Week events and celebrations on our campaign message board.

If you’d like to add some Befriending Week sparkle to your events, you can also download decorations, activities and more on our Befriending Week website.

Thank you to all our supporters for being part of Befriending Week!