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Ilkley & District Good Neighbours

Befriending

About Ilkley & District Good Neighbours

Research shows that to have the best chance of living happy, contented lives we need social connections and quality relationships. This is what befriending brings to older people living in the Ilkley District experiencing feelings of loneliness and/or social isolation. Each volunteer is carefully matched with an older person for weekly visits to enhance their lives through companionship and, in time we hope, friendship.  Our carefully selected, well-trained befrienders play an invaluable role; building confidence, providing a listening ear, cheerful company and conversation. Befrienders and clients share stories, reminisce, play board games, sing together, discuss world politics, share recipes, some go out for short walks or to a local cafe.  ‘My befriender has really enhanced my life. She is kind and organised. We have such fun. I feel I need her and she perhaps feels she needs me too.’

Riddings Hall, Riddings Road, ILKLEY, West Yorkshire, LS29 9LU

Service Eligibility

Older people 65+ living in their own home, experiencing feelings of loneliness or social isolation living in the Ilkley District (Ilkley, Addingham, Burley-in-Wharfedale).  Those living alone will be prioritised.

Anyone can refer to the service by calling Helen, Befriending Coordinator, 01943 609906 / 07536 457 961 for a friendly chat to discuss whether the service is appropriate for them or their client/loved one.   Unfortunately we are unable to match those who are living with memory issues or those who smoke.  Those clients who are receiving 4 or more care visits a day are also unlikely to be suitable.

If, after an initial telephone conversation, we consider the person to be suitable for the scheme we will visit them in their home to complete a full assessment, with a view to matching them with a volunteer as soon as possible.

 

Information for Volunteers

Volunteers are at the heart of Ilkley Good Neighbours and the services we offer. Are you able to offer a helping hand?  We would love to hear from you if you are interested in joining us. Our befriending volunteers need to be reliable, trustworthy and considerate, good listeners with an interest in people and an understanding of some of the issues faced by older people.  This is usually a medium to long term volunteering opportunity – you generally need to be available once a week (Mon-Fri only) or once a fortnight for a minimum of 6 months (although many of our matches last for years).

If you are interested, give Helen a call on 07536 457 961 or email her at gnb@goodneighboursilkley.org.uk and we will send you our application pack including role description, volunteer booklet and application form.  Please note an enhanced DBS check will be required for this role.

Age Groups

Older People (65+)

Themes

Older People

Regions

Country: England

Yorkshire and the Humber

Other Information

Type of Befriending: Distance befriending including telephone, video call, letter writing or other means, Face to face befriending which takes place in the home or community

Who can refer: Self Referrals Accepted, Friends & Family Referrals Accepted, Professional Referrals Accepted

More Information

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