Telephone Befriender

Deafblind UK

5 positions available

Enhanced DBS check required

Description

DeafBlind UK is offering a simple yet deeply rewarding opportunity to support individuals living with combined sight and hearing loss. As a telephone befriender, you’ll be matched with one of their members for a friendly 30-minute call once a week—bringing warmth, conversation, and human connection to someone who may otherwise feel isolated or alone. Many DeafBlind UK members experience social isolation, and for some, your call might be the only conversation they have that day—or even that week. Your role as a befriender is to be a friendly, listening ear, sharing stories, exploring common interests, and simply being present in the moment. These chats, while informal, can have a profound impact on someone’s sense of connection and wellbeing. You’ll need to be comfortable holding a conversation and bring a naturally warm, empathetic, and patient nature. Life experience, curiosity, and good communication skills are all welcome—members love speaking with people who have stories to share and time to listen. As a volunteer, you’ll: - Make a weekly 30-minute call to a DeafBlind UK member for friendly conversation. - Build a meaningful connection by sharing experiences and listening with empathy. - Offer a source of companionship and consistency for someone who may feel isolated. You’ll be supported every step of the way, with training and guidance provided to help you feel confident and equipped in your role. DeafBlind UK hopes you can offer your time each week, but this is entirely flexible and at your discretion. If you’re ready to bring comfort and companionship to someone’s week with just a simple phone call, register your interest to become a telephone befriender with DeafBlind UK.

  • Disabilities
  • Mental Health & Wellbeing
  • Isolation & Loneliness

  • Access to telephone / online support
  • References can be provided after specific period volunteering
  • Day to day support
  • Induction provided
  • Thanks / recognition for volunteer contribution
  • Training period
  • Volunteer handbook available
  • Volunteer will have named supervisior
  • Regular one to one supervision meetings
  • Written role description

Minimum 1 hour per week

  • Informal discussion
  • Online application
  • References
  • Criminal Record Check

  • Need own computer / access to internet
  • Need own phone

  • Virtual/remote volunteering

From Home

Need to be over 18

Ongoing

  • Additional support can be provided

Willing to share your personal interests with a member Have a genuine interest in others and getting to know them Someone with a good understanding of confidentiality Non-judgmental and empathic with the ability to actively listen

This role requires an Enhanced DBS check

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