Safe and Well Volunteer Befrienders from the South Eastern Trust gathered for a special ‘Coffee and Connect’ event, where they shared stories and personal experiences of their invaluable role in supporting older people in the local community.
Volunteer Befrienders offer companionship to older people who may be isolated or lonely, providing a friendly face, someone to chat with and a regular point of social contact. Through simple conversations, visits and phone calls, they help older people feel more connected to their community and improve their overall wellbeing.
These informal ‘Coffee and Connect’ get-togethers for Volunteers are more than a chance to relax, they are moments of connection that highlight the powerful difference Volunteers make in the lives of others. Volunteering does not just benefit the people being supported, giving time to others can also reduce stress, combat feelings of loneliness and improve the Volunteer’s health and wellbeing.
South Eastern Trust, Volunteer Befriending Facilitator, Lynn Shields, said, “These simple moments of laughter and friendship can help reinforce the deeper impact of Volunteering. I would like to thank all our Volunteers for their time and dedication.”
If you are interested in becoming a Volunteer Befriender or finding out more about the programme, call (028) 9756 6934 or email safeandwell@setrust.hscni.net
