Hounslow residents aged from 31 – 104 years have credited BEfriend with reducing their feelings of loneliness. 90% of residents who were surveyed after receiving six months of support reported reduced feelings of loneliness. Residents receive weekly visits from trained volunteers and are invited on group outings; 100% of residents also surveyed reported an increase in physical activity after six months.
Volunteers support residents to attend community activities, accompanying them to health appointments, go on a walk together, or simply have a cup of tea and chat at home.
See how a friendship has developed between Alfie and Donald
The BEfriend service was launched by the Hounslow Borough Based Partnership in 2023 after evidence highlighted that Hounslow had a far higher percentage of adults who felt lonely ‘often’ or ‘always’, compared to London and England. Now residents who have varying health needs, including dementia, mental health issues, learning, physical (including frailty) and sensory disabilities receive either weekly visits from an in-person befriender volunteer or weekly telephone calls.
Katrina Bell, Joint Commissioning Manager - Preventative Services and Supported Housing, Hounslow Council, said:
“Socially isolated people are more likely to suffer depression and less likely to be physically active. Without social connections people are more vulnerable to feelings of helplessness and hopelessness which can lead to self-harm and suicide.”
Evidence has shown that socially isolated people have poorer health outcomes. A befriender provides companionship and helps people to access and reconnect with their local community, reducing their risk of needing statutory support and enhancing their quality of life and overall wellbeing.”
Rachel Hill, Chief Executive, BEfriend, said:
“It has been incredibly rewarding to witness the positive impact we've already had on individuals facing loneliness.
“We are fortunate to have dedicated volunteers who are committed to alleviating loneliness, but the need is great, and we are calling for more volunteers to join us. As we look forward to the year ahead, our goal is to help even more people experience the benefits of connection and companionship.”
Anyone who wishes to find out more about volunteering for BEfriend, or to sign up can do so on the charity’s website. Volunteers receive full training before they start visits and ongoing support throughout their befriending journey.
*Every core BEfriend resident completed the loneliness scale when they reach the six-month mark to monitor outcomes.