Volunteer Befriender

Befriending is at the very heart of Link Age Southwark's services. Lots of the older people we work with are feeling lonely and in need of a little extra social company. Our fantastic volunteer befrienders visit an older person once a week, sharing a cup of tea and a chat together.

Demand for our befriending service continues to grow and we are looking for new people to join our existing team of volunteers so that we can support as many older people as possible.

"I really look forward to my weekly visits, as I know my befriendee also does. We have become good friends and enjoy each other's company. I'm so glad that I found out about Link Age Southwark and decided to volunteer - it has made a real difference to my life"

This role requires:

volunteering for approximately 1 hour a week to visit an older person
a commitment to volunteer for a minimum of 6 months
a cheerful and friendly personality
good communication/listening skills
attendance at a volunteer induction and other relevant training opportunities
completion of a full Disclosure Barring Service and character reference check
a commitment to working within the policies of Link Age Southwark, in particular health & safety, confidentiality, safeguarding and equality and diversity

Becoming a volunteer with Link Age Southwark is a fantastic opportunity to meet new people and get to know more about your local community.

We cover all reasonable expenses and we are happy to provide references for volunteers who have completed 6 months of volunteering with us.

How do I apply?

Complete online application form

If you would prefer, you can also download our application form here and email to [email protected]

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My experience as a volunteer

I've always worked in the NHS, mostly in paediatrics, and when I retired I wanted to do something equally rewarding but different so when I found that Link Age Southwark (Dulwich Helpline as it was then) was looking for befrienders for the elderly I thought this sounded exactly what I was looking for. Read more