The Two’s Company Keswick befriending scheme is now three months old, and some of the volunteer befrienders recently met up over a mince pie and a drink to catch up with each other and to share their experiences of being a befriender so far. Fiona Overend, the scheme coordinator, gave an update on progress saying that 18 people had been or were being fully trained and vetted, and that there had been a steady stream of new referrals from a wide range of people and organisations. Six befrienders and their friends had been matched so far and were benefitting from that friendship. Keith Rigg, scheme leader, then talked about plans for the coming year and offered thanks to all those who had volunteered so far.
As we approach this Christmas season, we know that over 500,000 older people in the UK will spend Christmas Day alone this year. We don’t know what that number is in Keswick and the surrounding villages, but as more people are referred our aim is to make a difference to the lives of those who are lonely or socially isolated. One of our friends who has been matched up has said that ‘spending time with my befriender has really helped me.’
As we think ahead to 2022 could you offer an hour a week to be a volunteer befriender? Or do you know a family member or neighbour who would benefit from being befriended? If so, please get in touch with Fiona on 07832 858537 or by email keswick@twoscompany.org.uk
Our hope for the coming year is that more people in Keswick and the surrounding villages can benefit from befriending.
