Community Companions is a befriending service available to anyone in Bradford district and Craven aged 18 and over. 

The service supports people who are struggling with loneliness, social isolation and mental health issues.

After you have made an application for befriending support we will match you with a befriender based on your likes and interests. Your befriender will meet with you for up to one hour each week for up to three months.

We were perfect partners, lots in common. I couldn’t have asked for a better partner.

Person supported

I personally feel as well helping those I support I also get the same support from those I befriend.

Volunteer

Neil’s story

Watch this video to hear how Neil was supported by Community Companions.

Neil’s story is available to read here.

Who is eligible for support from Community Companions?

You 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

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. 

[email protected]

How do I make a referral?

You can refer yourself or someone else as long as you have their consent. To make a referral please complete the online referral form. If you are struggling to complete the form please contact us for support with your referral on:

[email protected]

Or call us on: 

01274 730815

What will happen 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. 

Volunteer as a befriender

To find out more about volunteering head to our volunteering page or check out the videos and blog post below:

[VIDEO] Hisfah’s story – supporting others through befriending

[VIDEO] David’s story – supporting others through befriending

[BLOG] What does befriending mean to you?

 

 

Hisfah’s story, supporting others

 

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