be a friend

be a friend is launching an expansion programme at the end of January 2012.  The co-ordinator, Gill Fraser, says "There is a clear need for the services we provide and we have a tried and tested system of operation which enables us to match the individual needs of lonely and socially isolated people in our community with volunteer befrienders. We have the infrastructure in place to expand, so we are embarking on a publicity programme to both help to identify lonely people and to recruit more volunteer befrienders."

Fraser continued: "We have already demonstrated that we can improve the quality of people's lives through the visiting scheme. We would like to extend our services to add elements of advocacy, to help access to information and services that would add further to the quality of lives.  We are exploring ways to fund a sustainable extension of our services."

Volunteer befrienders receive a short initial training programme and are matched to appropriate people. The basic time commitment is about an hour per month, but the average of existing volunteers is 3 or 4 times the basic level. Continuing support and training is provided.  

Funding for the immediate expansion of the be a friend programme has been provided by the Louthesk Deanery, the Tudor Trust and by contributions from Louth & District Lions Club and East Lindsey District Council.

The expansion programme will be launched at the Sunday morning service at North Somercotes on 29 January, 2012. 

Posters and postcards publicising the be a friend programme will be distributed throughout the area.  If you have an opportuntity to put up a poster in a prominent location please contact Gill Fraser.  She will also be pleased to hear if you know of a group that would welcome a presentation about the scheme. 

Contact Gill Fraser at be.a.friend@btconnect.com or telephone 07890 629062.