Telephone Befriender

ReConnect supports people affected by Stroke, Aphasia, and other long term health conditions to connect with each other. We facilitate a peer befriending scheme and peer support groups across Gloucestershire to help to reduce social isolation and build confidence and self-esteem.

As a Telephone Befriender, you will do the following:

• Schedule a weekly (or fortnightly) telephone or online call to a person who has been referred to our service
• Offer company, empathy, encouragement, and share experiences.
• Encourage them to achieve personal goals, such as joining a local club or visiting the church or library
• share life experiences
• report back to ReConnect to confirm that a call was made and when.

This role might be perfect for you, if you are:

• also affected by a long term condition or know someone who is (not essential)
• excellent at listening & communicating with people.
• empathetic and non-judgemental.
• willing to try new things and adapt to the Befriendee’s needs.
• happy to be autonomous with guidance from a key staff member.
• over 18 years old
• living within Gloucestershire.
• reliable and attentive

As a volunteer, you will benefit from:

• an induction and on-going training, covering safeguarding, health & safety.
• regular ongoing support from a staff member.
• connection to your local community and support/social groups.
• being a valued member of an incredible and friendly team.
• skills and knowledge to transfer to other areas of your life
• out-of-pocket expenses reimbursed.
• DBS clearance (funded by us)

Location & time commitment:

• most volunteer commit to 1 hour per week to provide consistency for the person they support.
• timing and method is flexible depending on your, and our befriendee’s, needs.

Application Process:

• To apply, please complete an application form
• A Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check at an enhanced level is required for this role. ReConnect will process this with you for free.
• Once we have received your application, references and DBS check we will arrange a time for your training and match you with a person.