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...
Gedling Two’s Company Befriending
Gedling Two’s Company Befriending is a befriending service aimed at older adults who find themselves requiring some extra friendship and support, and this is provided through weekly telephone calls. We match volunteers with those who are referred to us and all volunteers are carefully selected, trained and vetted.
3.9M
TV only companion
500K
spend Christmas alone
9M
people lonely in UK
Referrals
We accept referrals from statutory organisations such as social workers, social prescribers, GP’s and community health practitioners, charities, friends and family members or self-referrals.
Our main criteria for admission to the scheme is for there to be clear evidence of social isolation and that our service is being requested by the person concerned. We regret that we are unable to arrange visits where there is a diagnosis of advanced dementia or certain mental health conditions.
Our service is available to older adults living within Gedling. For further details please contact us on 0115 8599556.
To make a referral, please complete the referral form.
Get Involved
The role of a volunteer is to carry out a regular home visit or telephone call to an allocated ‘scheme member’ usually for one hour every one or two weeks. This contact is often a lifeline for those who are unable to leave their home very often, and who have little contact with others in the community.
The majority of our volunteers report that they have an extremely positive experience within their role and that they benefit from their experience as much as their allocated friend. We are keen to build on this mutual benefit and encourage all volunteers to look for opportunities to celebrate and honour the achievements and experiences of scheme members.
If you would like to apply to become a volunteer, please get in touch with us using the form below or phone our coordinator.
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Contact Us
John Tattersfield
The Ark Advice Centre12 Wollaton AvenueGedlingNottinghamNG4 4HX
0115 8599556
gedling@twoscompany.org.uk