Community Services: Befriending
Who are the Befrienders? A befriender is a volunteer who will visit you in your own home, on a regular basis, for a cuppa and a chat. They provide companionship and support.
Can I have a Befriender? You can have a befriender if you are: A resident within the London Borough of Havering Housebound Aged 60+ Living alone Priority will be given to those with no family and few social connections
Can someone ring me for a chat? Yes, we can arrange for weekly call from a friendly volunteer.
Do I have to pay? No, Age Concern Havering does not charge for this service.
Are the volunteers checked by Age Concern Havering? Yes, Age Concern Havering arranges for a criminal records bureau check on all its volunteers to ensure the safety of people they befriend.
Can my befriender help with other care? No, befrienders are not able to clean, shop, or undertake household chores. They are also unable to take you out of your home on appointments or outings.
How do I apply? Please call 01708 796605 or email the Befriending Coordinator who will then make a home visit to see whether befriending would be a suitable service or whether the person requires other types of support available within the borough.
BEREAVEMENT SUPPORT The Bereavement Support Service works in partnership with the Befriending Service to provide both emotional and practical support to people over the age of 60 who have no one to help them through this difficult time. The service is not a counselling service.
The Bereavement Service will:
- Assess and provide emotional needs
- Collect the death certificate
- Register the death
- Contact the undertaker
- Assist with planning the funeral
- Arrange benefits checks
- Liaise with solicitors/appointees
- Escort the bereaved person to relevant appointments
- Give access to other services
For more information on Befriending or Bereavement Support, please call 01708 796605.