Nine in 10 BEfriend users say it has made them less lonely

Nine in 10 people who were surveyed after receiving six months of support said they felt less lonely. Residents receive weekly visits from trained volunteers and are invited on group outings. As a result, 100% of residents also surveyed reported an increase in physical activity after six months. 

BEfriend reduces social isolation and increases mental and physical wellbeing by personally matching volunteers with residents who can best support their needs, and hopefully strike up a new friendship. It is commissioned and funded in Hounslow by the Borough Based Partnership (BBP), a joint initiative between the Council and local health partners. 

Volunteers support residents to attend community activities, accompanying them to health appointments, go on a walk together, or simply have a cup of tea and chat at home. 

See how a friendship has developed between BEfriend volunteer Alfie and Donald.

Council combating loneliness

The BBP launched BEfriend in Hounslow in 2023 after evidence highlighted the borough had a far higher percentage of adults who felt lonely ‘often’ or ‘always’, compared to London and England. Now residents who have varying health needs, including dementia, mental health issues, learning, physical (including frailty) and sensory disabilities, receive either weekly visits from an in-person befriender volunteer or weekly telephone calls. 

Katrina Bell, Joint Commissioning Manager - Preventative Services and Supported Housing, Hounslow Council, said: “Socially isolated people are more likely to suffer depression and less likely to be physically active. Without social connections, people are more vulnerable to feelings of helplessness and hopelessness which can lead to self-harm and suicide.

“Evidence has shown that socially isolated people have poorer health outcomes. A befriender provides companionship and helps people to access and reconnect with their local community, reducing their risk of needing statutory support and enhancing their quality of life and overall wellbeing.” 

Rachel Hill, Chief Executive, BEfriend, said: “It has been incredibly rewarding to witness the positive impact we've already had on individuals facing loneliness. 

“We are fortunate to have dedicated volunteers who are committed to alleviating loneliness. But the need is great, and we are calling for more volunteers to join us. As we look forward to the year ahead, our goal is to help even more people experience the benefits of connection and companionship.”

Anyone who wishes to find out more about volunteering for BEfriend, or to sign up can do so on the charity’s website. Volunteers receive full training before they start visits and ongoing support throughout their befriending journey.