A new campaign has launched in Hounslow today with the aim of recruiting volunteers for its befriending services.
Funded by Hounslow Borough Based Partnership, the scheme ‘BEfriend’ matches volunteers with people who are lonely.
They meet for an hour or two a week to have a chat and build up a friendship.
Volunteers will receive full training and ongoing support thought out their befriending journey.
Councillor Lily Bath, Hounslow Council’s Cabinet Member for Adult Social Care, Public Health and Transformation, said: “BEfriend do fantastic work matching volunteers with people experiencing loneliness in Hounslow.
“I take great pride in the Council’s support for their work as part of the Borough Based Partnership and I would encourage anyone who can spare a couple of hours a week to volunteer. As a Council it’s our duty to improve our residents’ lives in any way we can, and helping people to feel less alone is one way we’re determined to do that.”
Rachel Hill, Chief Executive, BEfriend, said: “BEfriend has now been operating in Hounslow for a full year. It has been incredibly rewarding to witness the positive impact we’ve already had on individuals facing loneliness, as highlighted in the heartwarming story of Donald and Alfie featured in this video.
“We are fortunate to have dedicated volunteers who are committed to alleviating loneliness, but the need is great, and we are calling for more volunteers to join us. As we look forward to the year ahead, our goal is to help even more people experience the benefits of connection and companionship.”
