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Community Companions is available to anyone aged 18 and over living in Bradford District and Craven who is struggling with loneliness, social isolation and mental health issues.
Once you are matched with a befriender they will meet with you for up to one hour each week in-person to listen to you and encourage you to get out into the community. Your befriending support with your match will last for three months.
Interested in giving your time as a Befriending Volunteer?
Hifsah is one of our amazing Befriending Volunteers:
Frequently Asked Questions
How does Community Companions help?
David volunteers as a Community Companion, watch the video to hear more about the service and how it helps him and his befriending client.
Read about what others think of the Community Companions here.
David’s befriending story
What will happen next after I submit a referral to Community Companions?
After completing your referral form we’ll match you with a befriending volunteer based on your preferences. Your befriender will meet you for one hour every week for 3 months. They will help build your confidence and gradually encourage you to access to local community groups, activities and services that help with your mental health and wellbeing.
Can I get support from Community Companions in different languages?
We currently offer befriending support in English, Punjabi and Urdu. Other languages may be available, please contact us before you submit your referral application.
Community Companions referral form
Community Companion clients must be:
• 18 years old or over
• Willing and able to give informed consent to this referral and to engage with befriending activity
• Be experiencing loneliness, social isolation, low mood, anxiety or depression and could benefit from face-to-face social interaction with a volunteer befriender in the community.
• Live in Bradford District (Bradford, Craven, Airedale and Wharfedale)
• Aware that this service is focused on building confidence in public places and social environments
Referrals for Community Companions must not:
• Lack mental capacity to consent to this referral
• Pose a risk to others, including staff and volunteers
• Have drug or alcohol abuse problems, or unsafe living environment
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