Befriending works. It changes lives. These are not new discoveries. But perhaps what is new is that churches are realising this is a great way to reach out and bless their communities.
So, why befriending?
1. It works.
Barbara*, who is in her 70’s, never married and lives alone. Her mobility issues caused by arthritis makes it hard to get out. Pauline, her befriender has provided the company Barbara needed. She says “Having a befriender is one of the best things that’s happened to me. I love hearing her voice.”
2. It’s simple.
At its most basic, befriending is about making friends with someone you didn’t know. Whether over the phone, in a café or at their home, it’s about chatting and listening. You don’t need a qualification or previous experience. The prerequisite is being able to value someone else.
3. It’s needed.
In 2022 roughly 4 million people experienced chronic loneliness – feeling lonely often or always. [1]. The impact of loneliness shows itself physically, emotionally and mentally. But regular connection can break this damaging effect. Often, it’s a simple chat that is needed. As Richard* said “Befriending has made a big difference to me. It’s a comfort. Sometimes my befriender is the only person I speak to all week. If I’m up or down, there is a listening ear.”
4. You don’t have to reinvent the wheel.
Setting up a befriending scheme with an established brand, such as Two’s Company Befriending, gives you everything you need to do befriending well. Maybe befriending is something you could offer through your church to your community?
Why not order your FREE Two’s Company Befriending Introductory Pack today and explore this growing trend for yourself? Click here to Contact Us!
*Names have been changed to protect identities.
