We all know that lockdown has been difficult for almost everybody, but for those already isolated it it’s a lonelier time than ever before. During the first lockdown we worked with Blackpool Council’s Corona Kindness directive to offer a telephone befriending service to connect with those needing social contact. Then something great happened! We were awarded funding from the Coronavirus Community Support Fund, distributed by National Lottery Community Fund and with this we were able to continue to offer this support in the form of our new telephone befriending service – The BFriend Project – and reach more people in need of a friend to address the ongoing demand.  

Lending a friendly sympathetic ear can go a long way. It can be a chance for both BFriendees and BFrienders to find a friend for life.

A weekly chat from one of our volunteers might be the only contact someone can have all week and  volunteer Bfrienders and Bfriendees may even find that they share the same hobbies and interests. Bfriending services also relieves pressure on other services. 

Neil Jack – CEO, Blackpool Borough Council said this about our project –

“The work that the Blackpool, Wyre and Fylde Volunteer Centre have undertaken to support our community with the very real and damaging impact of social isolation has been invaluable and we hear often that people have really valued the regular, meaningful contact that they have been able to provide.  I am delighted that they are able to strengthen this service and know that it will benefit so many people now and into the future”

We’re proud of the work we’re doing to help combat isolation and loneliness and we’d love you to be part of it. Are you interested in becoming a volunteer BFriender? Or do you or someone you know need a friendly befriending call?

For more info please email: BFriend@blackpoolvolunteers.org.uk