Between April 2025 and March 2026, 88 amazing volunteers each gave just one hour a week to support people in their community who are experiencing social isolation. That small commitment has made a huge difference to isolated adults in Hackney and the City of London, and is vital in enabling Volunteer Centre Hackney to offer its Community Befrienders programme.
One of those volunteers, Meera, signed up to volunteer as a befriender whilst looking for a placement in her first year studying psychotherapy. She was keen to get involved in a one-on-one role where she could meet people in the local community, and after attending induction training, she was matched with W as a telephone befriender.
At first, as a new volunteer, Meera did not know what to expect:
“I felt quite nervous about starting tele-befriending as I was not sure how easy it would be to build a rapport over the telephone. Initially it was difficult, but as time went on, I believe we built a good rapport.”
Many individuals who are referred to the Community Befrienders programme experience challenges with their mental health and there were occasions when W was feeling low and it was difficult to engage them in conversation. Despite this, Meera began to notice over time how much of an impact she was having simply by being there for W:
“…At times I felt that I was not making any kind of difference, but I eventually realised that maintaining consistency and showing up for W each week was in itself important. Just being present and listening to W, especially during periods when they were struggling with their mental health, was enough to make a difference.”
As the relationship between Meera and W developed their conversations progressed towards shared interests such as the football teams they supported and the types of cuisine they liked to eat. The volunteering role not only supported W with their isolation and loneliness, but was benefiting Meera too:
“I really enjoyed listening to W talk passionately about football and their family. There was a time when W started singing with such freedom whilst they were on the phone to me which was nice as they clearly felt comfortable doing that.”
The connection that the two built up was just as meaningful for W:
“Meera is lovely and I enjoyed our chats. I’m glad she was paired with me as we do get on.”
Reflecting on the relationship they had created, Meera described it as special and one that she found to be a privilege.
“I truly enjoyed the experience and would 100% recommend becoming a befriending volunteer to anyone considering it. I am certain that in the future I will definitely consider doing it again.”
Meera’s story is a powerful example of how giving as little as one hour a week can make a real difference to an isolated person.
If you would like to join the Community Befrienders and support a Hackney or City resident who is experiencing social isolation and loneliness, you can register your interest in the role by clicking here and a member if the team will be in touch.