Simply Chat – November 2021
Headlines from our October meeting (postponed & held 4 November 2021)
This month’s meeting focused on Befriending services – to celebrate Befriending Week.
1. Services experiencing increased demand
Many people indicated that they are experiencing an increased demand for their services, and seeing more young people accessing befriending support. Lockdowns have meant that more and more young people are feeling lonely and isolated, and needing some support and guidance as they struggle with different issues and accessing other services.
2. Increased number of people with Mental Health and complex needs
Some services reported they are supporting more people following COVID-19 who are house-bound, have complex needs, and accessing social care support etc. This can be tricky to manage, and becomes more demanding on the volunteers supporting these individuals – particularly if individuals find themselves becoming too reliant upon their befriender.
3. Transitioning from telephone befriending to face to face support
Services are now finding ways to support people to meet in person. This is done in a considered and safe way for both parties – some services have set up new groups to facilitate this i.e. friendship groups, interest groups (LGBT, Gig Buddies).
4. Where does befriending match end, and a friendship start?
We had an interesting discussion around where ‘befriending’ ends, and a natural friendship starts – and at what point does a service step out of this friendship?
5. Importance of Befriending Co-ordinator role
Several examples were discussed where the importance of the Befriending Co-ordinator was highlighted to ensure that befriending is a positive experience for both parties;
- Importance of managing expectations by explaining boundaries and responsibilities to both clients and volunteers
- Monitoring and overseeing ‘matches’, and stepping in if/as required
- If an individual has complex needs, or doesn’t meet criteria, ensuring they are referred onto more suitable services.
6. Considerations for safeguarding & managing risks;
- All volunteers must be checked and approved first, with references undertaken
- Volunteers must receive appropriate training, and know what is/isn’t part of the role
- Co-ordinators need to provide regular and ongoing support to volunteers