Loneliness and social isolation can affect people of all ages and backgrounds. Across Leeds, a number of organisations provide befriending services that help people stay connected, build confidence and access support within their communities.
Whether you are looking for support for yourself or someone you know, or you are interested in volunteering, there are several opportunities available.
Why Befriending Matters
A regular conversation, friendly visit or weekly phone call can make a significant difference to someone’s wellbeing.
Befriending services help people:
- Feel more connected to their community
- Reduce feelings of loneliness and isolation
- Build confidence and independence
- Access local activities and support networks
- Improve overall wellbeing
For volunteers, befriending offers a practical way to support others while gaining experience, developing new skills and making new connections.
Carers Leeds Volunteer Befriender Programme
Carers Leeds is looking for volunteer befrienders to provide one-to-one support to unpaid carers across the city.
Volunteer befrienders meet with a carer either in their home or within the local community. The role focuses on providing a listening ear, reducing isolation and helping carers explore local opportunities and activities. Training, ongoing support and travel expenses are provided.
Key Information
- Around 2 hours per week
- Regular weekly commitment
- Weekday availability preferred
- Training and support provided
- Travel expenses reimbursed
Find Out More
Volunteer Befriender Role: https://www.carersleeds.org.uk/volunteering/volunteer-befriender/
General volunteering opportunities: https://www.carersleeds.org.uk/get-involved/volunteering/
For further information contact:
Gayle Pannett, Befriending Co-ordinator
07508 426 656
Re-engage Telephone Befriending Service
Re-engage provides a free telephone befriending service for people aged 75 and over.
The service matches older people with a volunteer who provides a regular weekly phone call. The aim is to reduce loneliness and provide ongoing social connection through friendly conversation.
According to Re-engage, volunteers are currently available and referrals can be matched quickly following registration.
Who Is It For?
- People aged 75 and over
- Older people who may be experiencing loneliness or isolation
- Individuals looking for regular social contact through weekly phone calls
Find Out More
Get a Call Companion: https://www.reengage.org.uk/join-a-group-social-activity-or-call-companion/get-a-call-companion/
Telephone: 0800 716 543
Website: https://www.reengage.org.uk
Looking for Other Opportunities?
Leeds has a wide range of befriending, volunteering and community support opportunities available through local charities, neighbourhood networks and voluntary organisations.
You can also search for volunteering opportunities through:
- https://doinggoodleeds.org.uk
- https://volunteering.leeds.gov.uk
- https://www.volunteercentrelease.org.uk
Further Information
If your organisation provides a befriending service or volunteer befriending opportunities and would like to be included on this page, please contact Forum Central.
