Age UK Redbridge, Barking & Havering - Visiting Befriender - Havering Borough

Key Responsibilities:
•    Visit assigned individual on a regular, agreed-upon schedule to provide companionship and reduce feelings of isolation.
•    Engage in friendly, non-judgmental conversations, ensuring the person feels heard and valued.
•    Offer emotional support, encouragement, and a listening ear for individuals facing challenges such as loneliness and illness.
•    Participate in or support activities the individual enjoys, such as reading, hobbies, or light physical activities within the home environment and as appropriate.
•    Be attentive to any changes in the individual’s mood or health and report concerns to the Volunteer Coordinator
•    Provide a warm, respectful, and non-judgmental presence, making sure to maintain appropriate boundaries.
•    Record relevant information about each visit in accordance with the organisation’s protocols, including activities engaged in and any significant changes in the person’s well-being or needs.
•    Adhere to the organisation’s safeguarding, health, and safety, and confidentiality policies.
•    Provide feedback and attend occasional volunteer meetings or training to improve your role and experience.
 

•    Full training is provided so you will be prepared for being a companion and know what to expect.
•    Regular supervision with the Volunteer Services Team
•    You will also have support from our staff when you need it throughout your service. 
•    Out of pocket expenses and Travel expenses will be covered in line with our Expenses policy
•    References available upon request (after 3 months)
 

The Forget-Me-Not Service is a volunteer-led visiting and befriending scheme designed to support older individuals who are experiencing loneliness or social isolation. This compassionate service offers more than just companionship—it also acts as a vital welfare monitoring resource, ensuring the wellbeing of some of the most vulnerable members of our community.
Volunteer Visiting Befrienders play a key role in this initiative. By making regular home visits, volunteers provide:

•    Friendly companionship
•    Emotional support
•    A reassuring presence
•    Casual welfare checks

Through simple yet meaningful conversations and human connection, volunteers help create a positive and supportive environment, improving the quality of life for those they visit.
 

You will need to complete an application form and attend an informal interview.

If you are successful, you will need to provide references, undergo a DBS check and attend an induction. There will be training provided.
 

If you are 18+ and you're passionate about making a difference and bringing joy to someone's day, we would love to hear from you!
 

•    Strong communication skills with the ability to engage in meaningful conversations and show empathy.
•    Ability to build rapport with individuals from diverse backgrounds, including those who may have specific needs or challenges.
•    Patience, understanding, and a caring nature.
•    Experience or interest in working with vulnerable people, such as the elderly, those with disabilities, or individuals experiencing mental health difficulties.
•    No formal experience required, but previous experience in community work, care, or support roles is a plus.
•    Ability to maintain boundaries and respect confidentiality
 

Key Qualities:

•    Compassionate, empathetic, and a good listener.
•    Reliable, punctual, and committed to regular visits.
•    Friendly, approachable, and patient.
•    Respectful of personal space and diverse life experiences.
•    Flexible and adaptable to the individual needs of each person.