New service to help older people overcome social isolation
Age UK Northumberland has launched a new project to help older people overcome loneliness, social isolation and reconnect with their communities, interests and the people around them.
Enabling Connections aims to provide short-term, personalised, face-to-face support for people over the age of 50 who may have become less connected to their social networks or local community following a significant life change – bereavement, spending time in hospital, a change in routine or having loved ones move away.
The project will match older people with a trained volunteer befriender who will meet with them on a weekly basis for up to six months.
Together, they will identify personal goals and break these down into small, manageable steps, helping individuals to gradually build their confidence and independence.
That means meeting new people, attending a local activity or group, trying something new, learning digital skills or simply feeling more comfortable getting back out into the community.
Amy Whyte, chief executive of Age UK Northumberland, said: “We know that loneliness and social isolation can have a significant impact on older people’s confidence and wellbeing.
"Enabling Connections is about much more than simply providing companionship. It’s about helping people take those first steps towards reconnecting with the things and people that matter to them.”
To deliver the project, the charity is now calling on friendly, reliable, focused and encouraging local people to volunteer as befrienders.
Volunteers do not need previous experience of befriending or working with older people as the charity will provide full training, ongoing support, regular volunteer meetings and supervision, as well as reimbursement of out-of-pocket expenses.
The charity is looking for people who are friendly and outgoing, patient and reassuring, committed, comfortable maintaining appropriate boundaries and able to commit to regular weekday volunteering. Ideally, volunteers will have basic IT skills and be able to travel by car or public transport.
In return, volunteers will have the opportunity to develop skills in active listening, relationship building and goal setting, meet new people and see the real difference their time can make to the wellbeing of an older person in their community.
To find out more or volunteer email [email protected] of call 01670 784 800
More information about the project and volunteering can be found on the Age UK Northumberland website: