Telephone Befriender - Age UK Redbridge

The Forget-Me-Not Service (telephone befriending) is a volunteer-based scheme for older people who are isolated. In addition to providing companionship, it also acts as a welfare monitoring service. 

Main tasks and responsibilities:

• To telephone isolated, older people in their homes in order to provide a listening ear and alleviate isolation.
• Monitor welfare & report any concerns.
• Complete paperwork for every telephone call.

Benefits to volunteer:

• Meet new people.
• Enjoy a chat.
• Learn about the needs of older people.
• Develop listening skills.
• Gain experience for social work.
• Celebration event.
• Volunteer awards.
• Basic reference can be provided after six months regular volunteering.

What skills do I need?

Skills, personal attributes, qualifications and experience:

• Be confident speaking on the telephone
• Be friendly and professional
• Have an understanding about the need for confidentiality
• Have empathy & patience
• Be reliable
• Have a sense of humour
• Have an ability to identify problems and raise concerns
• Need to have access to mobile phone or landline.
• Need to be 18+

When do I need to be available?

	Morning	Afternoon	Evening
Monday
Tuesday
Wednesday
Thursday
Friday
Saturday
Sunday

Details

Ideally we would like volunteers to commit to three hours per week for a minimum commitment of six months.

Where does this role take place?