Thanks to funding from Waltham Forest Council, our Families team are proud to be launching a new community-led befriending service for isolated and lonely adults in the borough. The service will run for an initial period of two years.
In order to support approximately 200 people per year, our Families team will be recruiting a cadre of volunteer befrienders from the local community, who will be matched one-to-one to those in need for relationship and connection. Along with regular contact and conversation, befriendees will have access to a range of group activities led by our team, giving them a chance to have new experiences and make new friends. Together, these will not only take them out of isolation, but also help to build their confidence and improve their wellbeing.
Surveys report that approximately 20% of adults in the borough—around 55,000 people—said they regularly felt lonely, and that over 60% said they don’t have as much social contact as they’d like. And loneliness and isolation can have devastating effects on mental health and wellbeing. That’s why we’ll work with each person in need to develop a bespoke plan of action for their time with their befriender and what goals they want to work towards.
And, like all of LifeLine’s programmes, our team are focused on delivering long-term outcomes. By offering opportunities for people to come together and encouraging new friendships, we aim to grow supportive and long-lasting networks that can last for years to come—and perhaps even offer support to others in turn.
LifeLine Projects is excited to launch this important initiative in Waltham Forest. Our Community Befriending service offers more than just companionship – it’s a chance to build meaningful relationships that can truly transform someone’s life. Whether it’s a chat over tea and coffee or introducing someone to local resources and support, our volunteers will be there to make a difference.
