Our aim is to alleviate isolation and loneliness for older people who have little or no contact with people. Without our services, many of our clients would be extremely isolated and would not be able to leave their homes. We enhance emotional well-being in an age-group where loneliness and depression is an ever-increasing problem. Human companionship is essential to good health. We believe that it is fundamental to our very existence as functioning human beings and underpins our physical, spiritual and emotional state.
We usually visit an older person in their own home, however due to coronavirus restrictions, all new befriending is currently taking place over the telephone.
We endeavour to match volunteers and clients carefully, based on the client's needs and the volunteer's skills and interests.
You need to be patient and a good listener and be sympathetic to improving the quality of life of older people who find themselves isolated and lonely. Volunteer visitors offer support and friendship, usually on a weekly basis. This human contact makes a lasting difference, raises self-esteem, maintains independence and greatly improves quality of life for the older person and, often, the volunteer.
Visits are in the person's home.
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During the coronavirus outbreak, activities and visits are not taking place but the team is working with partners to provide free Asda parcels of food and essential items together with free single portion fresh meals for anyone in need (not just for older people) delivered to Harrogate, Knaresborough and villages. Shopping, prescription collection and telephone befriending services are provided for older people. The contact number is 07535 508043 if you know anyone who would benefit from any of these services.
If you know anyone who would benefit from a free food bag or meal please get in touch.
Food, essential items and single portion fresh meals (not just for older people) delivered to Harrogate, Knaresborough and villages.
Closed 19 December 2020 – 4 January 2021.
Supporting Older People provides a volunteer befriending service and group activities for older people (60+) living alone in the Harrogate District. Our aim is to prevent loneliness and support people to live independently in their own homes, whilst having an active social life. Our Befriending and Activities manager recruits and matches volunteers to individuals and supports them through the process. We also run a telephone and Skype befriending service. Our group activities include monthly Tea and talk events, singing group, outings and lunch club.
