What is the NHFT befriending service? | Our latest updates

What is the NHFT befriending service?

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The NHFT Befriending Service began life as the Welfare Call Service, an initiative to utilise volunteers whilst they were stood down due to the Covid-19 restrictions in 2020.  We changed the name later as it became obvious that the relationships being built were, in many cases, developing friendships, and that the calls were so much more than just welfare calls.

It has become very clear that many people are benefitting from this service generally and not just as part of the Covid 19 restrictions as the issues they face are always there.

The Service offered is quite unique as it is not a clinical service, but then so are our team of volunteers that support it.  There are currently 77 active clients receiving regular calls (weekly or more often) which are being made by 17 volunteers, however, there have been another 76 clients that have used the service but no longer need the additional support and that have since been discharged.

Our volunteers really do an amazing job at Befriending these clients and have helped many through some very tough times by being there for them, listening to them and offering all kinds of support.  Clients say they find it easier to talk to the volunteers, sometimes much easier than to friends or family.

Needless to say that this service would not be possible if it were not for the amazing volunteers that provide it. 

 

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