The Welcome Friends project is for people aged 50 and over, and runs across Rhondda Cynon Taf and Merthyr Tydfil. Through 1-1 befriending, encouraging people to take up activities or join groups, setting up new social groups, crafting groups of various kinds and volunteering.
Minimising loneliness and isolation, especially with older people, reduces the risk of depression, builds self-confidence, and has benefits to physical and mental health. The programme helps keep people connected to others in their community and gives an outlet to improve their wellbeing through socialising in a way that’s comfortable to them.
Welcome Friends improves quality of life for older people by working with them to break down or accommodate the difficulties faced by those who are not out and about, but also add more to those whose lives are manageable.
Volunteering with Welcome Friends is a satisfying and rewarding experience. You need to be able to give an hour a week of your time to visit a someone who will appreciate a friendly face and attentive ear.
Your companionship can encourage them to seek interests in a local activity group or just enjoy a cup of tea and a chat with you.
We will apply for a DBS check and take up two references from your friends or colleagues and then arrange for an informal training session before introducing you to a new friend.
For more information about Welcome Friends, get in touch on the details below.
