The Befriending Plus Project is funded by the Scottish Government’s Wellbeing Fund for 14 weeks, as part of the Connecting Scotland initiative. Its purpose is to connect socially isolated and vulnerable people while they are self-isolating or unable to go out. This includes providing support for them to use digital technology and access virtual events.

Eva has already started as the Project Co-ordinator, and her role will be to focus on making connections and identifying partners that can refer clients who would otherwise be unable to get connected or access our services. She will be responsible for engaging with individuals and groups currently underrepresented amongst our service users, particularly the BAME community. She will also work with the No.1 Befriending team to ensure that services are culturally appropriate and accessible, and that we all have the relevant knowledge and skills to deliver these services.

The Events Co-ordinator will start in their role mid-August, and will help develop and deliver a programme of virtual events. Tom has been recruited and started in his Administrator/IT Support role, and will help the attendees to access the events while also providing administrative and IT support to the staff team.

Who will be our virtual events for?

Our virtual events will be for anyone over 18, who is socially isolated and has been affected by the pandemic.

How will the virtual events look like?

We plan to offer a wide range of activities that support health and wellbeing, or simply fun, including: armchair exercises, mindfulness activities and arts and crafts sessions. We also hope  to include discussions on various topics, virtual sing-along and reminiscing sessions, and sharing stories and experiences. You can find out more at https://www.befriend.org.uk/virtual-events

Can I volunteer for this project?

Yes, we will need volunteers to help the attendees with the use of technology. If you have an idea for a session and/or would like to deliver it, please also get in touch with Thomas at thomas@befriend.org.uk

Do we accept referrals?

Yes. If you know anyone who is isolated and would benefit from a wee bit of virtual socialising,or if you’re a community leader and feel like your community has not been receiving enough support or engagement during the crisis, get in touch with Eva (eva@befriend.org.uk) for a referral form(s).