What Does Befriending Achieve?

Befriending offers safe, reliable, one-to-one social contact that provides companionship, interest, and enjoyment, helping individuals feel valued and socially connected. It is particularly impactful for those who feel isolated, even when in regular contact with others, or for individuals who primarily interact within mental health services.

Key aspects of befriending:

• Supports vulnerable or isolated individuals.

• Focuses on companionship through shared activities, fostering relationships that address loneliness and isolation.

• Prioritises the relationship itself rather than specific goals, distinguishing it from mentoring.

Our volunteers work exclusively in a befriending capacity and are not tasked with providing care, personal assistance, or other services. For additional support options, please contact us at info@befriend.org.uk.

Types of Befriending Available

• Face-to-Face Befriending: Temporarily suspended due to COVID-19, this involves regular meet-ups for shared activities such as walking, having coffee, or visiting cultural sites.

• Distance Befriending: Regular contact via phone, email, or letters, enabling valuable friendships regardless of physical distance.

Cost of Befriending

Our services are completely free—there are no charges or hidden fees.

Eligibility

Individuals are eligible for befriending if they:

• Live in Greater Glasgow

• Are over 65

• Live alone and experience loneliness or isolation

Referrals

To refer yourself or someone else:

• Call us on 0141 465 6998 (Monday–Friday, 10 AM–4 PM).

• Email us at info@befriend.org.uk.

Referrals can also be made by healthcare professionals, social workers, voluntary agencies, or family and friends.

Safety and Confidentiality

We take safety and confidentiality very seriously:

• Volunteers are trained, referenced, and undergo enhanced PVG checks.

• Relationships are regularly supported by coordinators, with ongoing reviews for both volunteers and befriendees.

• Boundaries are clearly outlined in agreements signed by all parties.

For distance befriending, emails are exchanged via a secure platform, and physical addresses remain private. Letters are routed through our office for added security.

Quality Standards

We adhere to Quality in Befriending (QiB) standards developed by Befriending Networks, as well as guidelines set by the National Care Standards and the Scottish Social Services Council. Our volunteers also receive training aligned with the Scottish Qualifications Authority’s Vital Skills in Befriending courses.