Volunteer Befriending in the Boroughs of
Ealing and Hounslow
On behalf of the Trustees of BEfriend, I am saddened to share the news that, after over 30 years of operations, we have made the extremely difficult decision to close.
While the work of the charity remains vital, the financial backdrop for small charities like us has become increasingly challenging, and we have not been able to secure sufficient funds to ensure a sustainable future for the organisation.
It is our intention to end our operations at the end of June. Until then, our priority will be supporting our clients and volunteers. We will be communicating with all volunteers and clients individually over the coming weeks.
We will also take time to celebrate all that BEfriend has accomplished. Over the last 30 years, the services we have provided have been life-changing for many, and we remain hugely proud of all that we have achieved.
Julia Macrae, Chair of Trustees
Frequently asked questions
I’m a client. Will I continue to be supported?
We understand that this will be challenging news for our clients. To ensure that we’re best able to support everyone at this time, our Befriending Coordinators are contacting all clients individually. Please be reassured that you will hear from us soon.
I’m a volunteer but I haven’t heard from you. What do I do?
We have emailed all volunteers, so we’re very sorry that you’ve not received a message. In the first instance please check your spam folder. If there’s nothing there, please email hello@befriend.london.
I referred someone to your service. What do I do?
We’ve been in touch with the agencies and organisations who refer the most clients to our services directly. If you made an individual referral, we may not have been in touch with you. Our Befriending Coordinators are contacting all clients, and if they feel that they need to speak with you, they will be in touch.
Befriending Project
Our Befriending Project has supported people who are isolated and sometimes housebound. They may have a physical or sensory disability, or they may have mild dementia. The Befriender’s weekly 1-2 hour visits have made a real difference.
Linked Minds Project
Our Linked Minds project has provided one-to-one befriending for people who are isolated because of a diagnosed mental health problem, with Befriender, client and supervisor making a plan together and setting a goal to work towards, and the befriending period being a year.
Stay connected with BEfriend!
Our final newsletter will be in May, with information and articles about our BEfriend community.
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Our Volunteers
Volunteering with BEfriend has not only enriched the lives of those in need but has also offered immense personal rewards.
Befrienders have built meaningful relationships with inspirational people and developed new skills.
They have been part of a supportive community that values compassion and connection, and have made a tangible difference in Ealing and Hounslow.
Listen to our podcast!
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Listen to previous episodes on our podcast page.
Once an application to be a Befriender has been made, and an informal interview has taken place, references have been applied for and a DBS (Disclosure and Barring Service) check undertaken, volunteers have undergone training, usually within a couple of weeks, then when a suitable client has been found, introductions have been made.
If the introduction has gone well, great! If for any reason the volunteer or the client have not felt comfortable, an introduction has been made to someone else.
We have not charged for any of our support and have regularly fundraised to ensure we could provide our support free of charge to our clients.
Case Studies
Explore our case studies to discover the real-life impact of our work at BEfriend. These stories showcase the transformative power of connection and support, illustrating how our volunteers and programmes have made a significant difference in the lives of individuals and the wider community.
Each case study is a testament to the positive change we have achieved together, highlighting the value of every contribution.
Support for the Ealing Community
Connect Ealing is a group of local charities working together to reduce social isolation and increase connections for people across Ealing. Between us all, we provide opportunities for people of all ages to connect with others! Explore how you can get involved and make a difference in Ealing today!
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