Befriending
Companionship for people who feel isolated - a regular visit, a phone call and a friendly face.
Befriending is a supportive relationship where one person offers companionship, empathy and a listening ear to another - often someone who may be feeling lonely, isolated, or going through a difficult time. It is not the same as psychological or talking therapy or counselling; instead, it is about building trust and offering emotional support through regular, friendly contact.
A local volunteer, matched to you
Our face-to-face befriending service requires one volunteer per client, so it can take several months to match a client to a volunteer. Once matched, phone calls or visits are weekly or fortnightly, agreed at the time of the match.
What befriending does not include
We will not take the client out of the home environment, as our insurance does not permit this. However, they can meet in a mutual location, such as a coffee shop or garden centre, but must make their own way there. The service does not support with personal care, essential domestic tasks, financial matters or medication.
- 1
Referral received
Once we receive a referral form, if appropriate, staff will contact the client to complete an assessment over the phone.
- 2
Individual assessment
We assess all referrals on an individual basis, discussed with the client, referrer and family as appropriate.
- 3
Decision by the Coordinator
The Befriending Coordinator decides whether to take the client onto the service after the initial assessment.
- 4
Matching to a volunteer
As one volunteer is matched to one client, this can take several months. Visits or calls are then agreed on a weekly or fortnightly basis.
Home Befriending
Would you benefit from a friendly face visiting you regularly? We can match you with a CAVS Volunteer Befriender based on your interests and needs. Regular home visits can provide great company, improve wellbeing and make a positive difference to daily life.
Telephone Befriending
Do you enjoy having a chat? Our Telephone Befriending service connects you with a volunteer who calls regularly for friendly conversation and company.
No one in Castle Point should feel forgotten
Loneliness affects people of every age. A single hour a week can change someone's whole outlook.
"Without my volunteer Befriender, my life would be very lonely."
"I'm so very grateful for all the companionship that my volunteer befriender brings to me."
Who can be referred?
Anyone living in our area who is lonely or socially isolated. You can refer yourself, a family member, a neighbour or a client - as long as their consent has been obtained if you are referring on their behalf.
Referring in
Complete the short referral form below, or call the office on 01268 214000 for a hard copy. Email referrals to befriending@cavsorg.uk or post to: Castle Point Association of Voluntary Services, Castle Point Borough Council Offices, Kiln Road, Benfleet, SS7 1TF.
Risk assessment and consent
Referrals can only be accepted if the risk assessment section of the form is completed in full. This covers any history of aggression or allegations, health conditions such as dementia or mobility needs, mental health, self-harm or suicide risk, drug or alcohol misuse, hazards or access issues in the home (including key safes), smoking, pets, and anyone else living in or visiting the property.
We also need confirmation that the client has given verbal consent to the referral and to the sharing, use and storage of their information. All personal data is processed in line with our Privacy Notice.
Befriending across Castle Point
Befriending referral form
FORM - Befriending Referral