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Good
Companions aims to enhance the quality of life of individual
older people by offering a trusting friendship which may, reduce isolation,
build up confidence and independence, encourage involvement in their
local community and to participate in new activities, widening horizons.
Older people
may become increasingly isolated at home, particularly when their physical
or mental health deteriorates, when relatives move away or a loved one
has died. Befriending volunteers can play an invaluable role in offering
friendship, reducing isolation, providing stimulation and building confidence
whether in the persons home or in a residential home.
Working in partnership
with other agencies locally, Good Companions hopes to enhance the quality
of life for older people in Addingham, Burley in Wharfedale, Ilkley,
and Menston.
Befriending
Volunteers can offer to build up a rapport with the client and listen
to their concerns, hopes, dreams and take an interest in their personal
interests by providing:
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Companionship
to individual older people living in their own home or in a residential
home.
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Company
and conversation, sharing a 'cuppa',
reading or writing letters.
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Short-term
support in the form of picking up prescriptions, library books,
etc.
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Information
on other relevant local support groups which may be of interest
to clients
-
Short-term
practical and emotional support
to older people if, for example, they have come home after hospital
treatment such as picking up prescriptions, library books, basic
shopping.
During the initial pilot year the scheme will aim to match volunteers
to 'befriend' older people who are 70 years plus, living on their own
who feel isolated and lonely. All volunteers will be CRB checked and
provide references. There will be training and an induction prior to
the volunteer being matched.
How
does the scheme work?
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A person
can refer themselves to the scheme or through another such as a
neighbour, social worker or health worker as long as they fit the
criteria.
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After
referral, the client is visited and an assessment is made before
being matched with a volunteer.
-
The Good
Companions volunteer will visit the client regularly in their own
home.
-
If required,
the Good Companions volunteer will help the client integrate with
a local social group
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The client
will be signposted to other local voluntary and community groups
where other help and support is required.
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As well
as one to one visits Good Companions hope in the future to run weekly
group meetings
How
can I find out more?
To download
a copy of the Good Companions leaflet click
here
For more information
on the Good Companions befriending scheme, whether seeking friendship
or interested in becoming a befriending volunteer please contact;
Mary Hamilton
Good Companions
Befriending Scheme Co-ordinator
Ilkley CVS & Good Neighbours
Riddings Hall
Riddings Road
Ilkley LS29 9LU
Tel. 01943 603348
E mail: goodcompanions@cvs.ilkley.org |