What does a volunteer befriender do?

Befriending involves being matched with someone, getting to know them and agreeing a regular pattern of contact and support. Meetings take place out in the community on a one-to-one basis for around 2 hours per fortnight. It may involve supporting someone to attend a social or leisure activity or any other reasonable activity that the person may find difficult to do on their own.

What does the training involve?

Watch our 40 second video about volunteering with LINK Befriending Projects.

• Volunteers receive initial training, usually two 2 hours sessions plus some short e-learning modules. This covers confidentiality, boundaries, an overview of mental health issues and the befriending process. Training content will be specific to which age group you are befriending.
• We ensure that volunteers understand LINK's policies and procedures, equal opportunities, racial equality and awareness, and we provide an opportunity for potential volunteers to meet with established ones, for a question and answer session.
• All volunteers must join the PVG scheme to allow them to work with a vulnerable Adult or Young Person. This is free to join for volunteers. If you are already a current PVG scheme member then an update will be required. 
• Volunteers receive regular support and supervision with the Project Worker and also have the opportunity to access further training and attend social events with the project.

The Project welcomes volunteers from all walks of life and sections of the community.

Current Opportunities

Please contact us to discuss any of these opportunities further.