Children back to school......the summer holidays becoming a distant memory.....evenings drawing in......maybe you are looking for a new challenge this autumn?

Why not consider becoming a Volunteer Befriender? Tandridge runs a ‘Befriending Scheme’ which provides volunteers to visit and offer companionship to lonely people in the local area. Regular visits are arranged at times to suit both parties and every effort is made to match volunteers with those in need taking consideration of personalities and interests. This is a really valuable service for those who are isolated or finding life increasingly challenging.

Some of those visited live independently, some in residential homes and others have carers within their families. Visits to the latter group allow a much needed break for the carer, often refreshing the carer's experience as well as providing companionship to the cared-for. Some of those visited struggle with ill health, medical conditions or are having difficulties with their sight or hearing. All look forward to and really enjoy their visits.

Befrienders are rewarded too, with a new friendship, a great deal of gratitude and the knowledge that through their companionship they are making a very great difference to the quality of another’s life. Often shared interests, such as a love of music or a skill or craft in common, can form the basis for a really strong bond. In these cases knowledge flows in both directions – this can build confidence and a feeling of value to those who often feel they are now just a burden to others. Visits from someone outside the family bring a change of perspective too. Here, encouragement and reassurance can greatly improve self confidence in those who need it most.

These are just a few of the quotes received from volunteers in the scheme:

‘I am really enjoying visiting her. She is very good company and I am getting a lot more than I was expecting out of our chats. I feel like she offers me a much needed break from my life! Thank you so much for putting us in touch’

‘She is a delight, a joy, a treasure – we hit it off straight away’

‘She has enriched my life, as I hope I have hers’

‘It is very rewarding to be able to help’

‘She is a very dear lady and a pleasure to visit. We have many a joke together and love playing Dominos’

‘When I leave she says ‘’from the bottom of my heart Thank You’’. That to me says it all.’

‘They are a lovely couple and I look forward to my visits with them.’

Please, if you have even an hour a week to spare and would like to find out more about this very valuable service or know of someone who would benefit from a visitor contact Kay who co-ordinates the scheme.

Kay Singleton

Tandridge Befriending Scheme Co-ordinator

07796 307286

befriending@tvsc.org.uk