By Helen Fay
West Leeds Befriender Service was launched last year by Creative Frame CIC to provide peer support to vulnerable adults in the area.
The project, financed by a National Lottery Community grant, is now approaching the end of its funding, but the service will continue as it receives referrals from organisations including Linking Leeds.
Creative Frame CIC director, Jonathan Parker, said: “Our dedicated befrienders provide personalised support, and offer compassionate companionship to combat loneliness.”
Creative Frame run a variety of groups and activities designed to bring people together and reduce feelings of loneliness.
The Sunday walking group is one example of the Befriender Service where people can socialise and get out into nature in a relaxed, supportive environment.
The Befriender Service ran a training course in the summer (for Men’s Group Facilitation training) and recruited the first cohort of volunteers to provide peer support. This support can include weekly check ins with the same volunteer, practical support in attending groups, and signposting and advocacy.
The project is also able to connect people with coaching, mentoring and therapy services where required. Jonathan is currently making a film about the Befriender Service as part of the monitoring process following funding to demonstrate the impact made in West Leeds.
Jonathan said: “Through regular social media interaction, phone calls and shared activities, our service fosters meaningful connections, boosts confidence and significantly enhances overall well-being for those we support.
“We want to promote further awareness of the West Leeds Befriender Service to the local community – to those who would like to access the service and also to those who would be interested in becoming a volunteer befriender.”
- For further information about accessing the Befriender Service or volunteering as a befriender, contact Jonathan Parker by email at info@creativeframe.org.uk or through the website. There is also a Facebook page.
Sponsored content
