West Norfolk Befriending
About West Norfolk Befriending
West Norfolk Befriending works to decrease social isolation among older people aged 65+ in West Norfolk. Many have become isolated due to a change in physical health or through their role as an unpaid family carer. There is a choice of service delivery via telephone, at home or via email. Following an assessment you will be matched with a vetted, trained and supported volunteer who will make contact for a chat fortnightly. Your volunteer will not undertake personal care, shopping or give advice but will share conversation and stories. We aim to “bring the outside in” to people who are no longer able to get out and engage with their communities. WNB hosts several community groups and social events in the year. Just call the office if you would like to know more about the service. The service is delivered with the safety of clients, volunteers and staff as a priority.
England, PE30 1HX
Service Eligibility
West Norfolk Befriending accepts referrals from concerned friends and relatives as well as professionals working with clients. The client must be aware of and agree to the referral. We are happy to accept self-referrals.
West Norfolk Befriending Criteria:
WNB works to ease isolation for frail, older people who are housebound due to a physical or sensory disability.
Befriending can support couples where one is the carer so has become isolated in the home.
WNB can offer a service to people living with the early stages of Dementia who are able to manage and enjoy conversation.
West Norfolk Befriending is not able to offer:
WNB is unable to offer a service to people with a complex mental health diagnosis.
The WNB befriending team are not professional carers and are unable to offer a sitting service.
Information for Volunteers
West Norfolk Befriending is a small well established charity working across West Norfolk.
We welcome volunteers with good listening skills who enjoy meeting people and are reliable, honest and patient with a great sense of humour and who can visit or call an isolated older client fortnightly by pre-arranged appointment for about an hour. We match our clients for up to a year so would ask that you are able to commit to a year’s befriending. All our volunteers follow an application and induction process.
We are also looking for dynamic people to join our team of Trustees, and also to support our fundraising.
Regular support meetings are held for all volunteers. WNB gives you a chance to use your skills in a small informal friendly setting while supporting the local community and making new friends.
You are welcome to get in touch for more information and an informal chat.
More InformationAge Groups
Older Adults (65+)Themes
Carers, Older PeopleRegions
Country: England
Other Regions: East of England
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