Befriending Week provides the opportunity to highlight the importance of befrienders in tackling isolation and improving an individual’s wellbeing. Volunteer Centre Hackney’s Community Befrienders programme supports lonely and isolated adults in the borough by pairing volunteers with people referred onto the programme.
D was referred to the programme as they have agoraphobia, meaning they have high anxiety about open spaces and long distances. They were paired with Sam who was a first-time befriender and “wanted to do something in the community that helped someone”.
Initially, D never went anywhere without their bike and viewed it as their security blanket. When getting to know Sam, they found out they had a mutual interest in bikes and bonded over this. Since then, the pair met up every Friday to go for lunch and a walk which has provided a significant boost for D:
“At first, walking was stressful. But Sam was always there to prompt and guide me. Week after week, step-by-step, he taught me to face my fears and get out of my comfort zone.”
“Now, it’s easier. I can leave my bike at home and go out alone which is a big thing for me.”
One of the things Sam supported D with was looking for ways to volunteer which led to them joining the Step Up programme to gain 1:1 support in finding a volunteering role. The Community Befrienders programme has provided D with the help needed to gain confidence and progress in their journey. Commenting on their experience of being matched with community befriender Sam, D said:
“I feel much happier now, with less paranoia. The road to full recovery is still ongoing, but with Sam’s help, I’ve done the hardest part.”
D’s befriender, Sam, added:
“Seeing the difference our match has made to his quality of life makes me so happy and proud, especially now as he feels confident enough to go out independently and wants to volunteer too.”
D’s story highlights the value and significant impact Community Befrienders can have on improving an individual’s wellbeing and tackling their isolation. We are incredibly thankful for the fantastic work all those currently volunteering on our Community Befrienders programme do in proving companionship and support for socially isolated and lonely individuals in Hackney.
If you would like to volunteer as a Community Befriender and support a Hackney resident who is experiencing social isolation and loneliness, you can register your interest in the role by clicking here.