2026 Roadshow – Edinburgh

Free

“Peer discussion was greatly organised. Very insightful! It’s lovely to realise that we all have similar difficulties, and sharing ideas makes it easier” — Roadshow attendee feedback

About the event

The Roadshow is your chance to be part of a peer-learning, inspiring and solution-packed gathering for all involved in befriending operations. After a highly successful UK tour in 2025 (where 96% of attendees asked us to hit the road again!), we’re back on tour and in 2026, these networking events will be bigger, with more time dedicated to impactful peer learning and discussions. Expect powerful conversations, real-world examples and solutions, and the kind of supportive networking that people rave about. Each event will be co-hosted by one of our fabulous members to ensure clear working examples are available alongside our guidance on good practice in befriending. 

In 2026, our Roadshow dives into three essential topics shaping befriending services right now through three topic questions:  

1. How do we recruit and retain volunteers?
2. How can we improve our referrals?
3. How do we protect our wellbeing?

Events will open at 10:10, with the event starting at 10:30. Events will close at 14:30. There will be optional networking from 14:30 – 15:00 for anyone who wants to stay longer and talk freely with others.

Who is this event for?

These events are free for all. Whether you are brand new or deeply experienced, you’ll leave our event with:

• Fresh ideas from peers facing the same challenges.
• Examples of good practice you can implement.
• Five top tips from our team for each discussion theme.
• New connections that strengthen your work and your confidence.

As one attendee shared: “We were delighted to attend, meet and talk with so many others delivering befriending services.”

Co-hosted with

Edinburgh City Mission

Edinburgh City Mission runs two befriending services: one for those over the age of 65 and one for New Scots. Both schemes unleash the volunteering capacity of the local church but provide their services to all. Find out more about them in our directory.

Agenda

• 10:30 – Welcome from Befriending Networks and Edinburgh City Mission
• 10:40 – Icebreaker
• 10:50 – Topic 1: Volunteer Recruitment and Retention
• 11:30 – Top Tips on Volunteer Recruitment and Retention
• 11:40 – Comfort Break One
• 11:55 – Topic 2: Improving Project Referrals and Community Collaboration
• 12:35 – Top Tips on Improving Project Referrals and Community Collaboration
• 12:45 – Comfort Break
• 13:25 – Topic 3: Protecting and Improving Wellbeing
• 14:05 – Top Tips on Protecting and Improving Wellbeing
• 14:15 – Next Steps
• 14:30 – Event Close

Cost

Roadshow events are free to both members and non-members of Befriending Networks.  We will provide refreshments throughout the day, but please bring your own lunch. There will be approximately 40 minutes for lunch, so there is time to step out of the event and purchase food if preferred.

Questions?

Please get in touch with the event facilitator, victoria@befriending.co.uk

Event Facilitator

This event is facilitated by

Victoria

Learning & Development Manager

Cancellation Policy: This event is a free event. We understand that circumstances can change. If you book to attend this event but can no longer attend, please inform the facilitator so that we can open your space to another attendee.

14 tickets available