Older People's Programme

The Older People's Programme was established in October 2003 to provide a befriending service to isolated older people living in East Renfrewshire. The programme is funded by East Renfrewshire Council & Lloyds TSB Foundation for Scotland.

Who can use this service?

The Older People's Programme is open to anyone over 60 who is socially isolated. The project is open to those living in their own home or in sheltered housing. We receive referrals from social workers, health care professionals and other local agencies.

What is the befriender's role?

BefriendER volunteers are trained to provide social support and companionship within the boundaries of a befriending relationship. Befrienders may be involved in home visits, small group outings or helping an individual get out and about to places of interest.

What role do project staff play?

BefriendER staff meet with potential befrienders to establish what they hope to gain from involvement in the project. After an induction training course & carrying out reference & Disclosure checks, they carefully match people according to various factors, including interests, hobbies, personality & skills. Staff provide on-going support for the duration of a befriender's involvement with the project.

For more information, contact project staff at:

UnderCOVER
56 Kelburn Street
Barrhead
G78 1LR
Tel: 0141 876 9555

Voluntary Action
2 Burnfield Road
Giffnock
G46 7QB
Tel: 0141 638 7000

For general enquiries:
befriender@voluntaryaction-er.org.uk