Befriending East Lothian

Befriending East Lothian connects people who are feeling lonely or isolated, with friendly and supportive volunteer befrienders, to meet 1-1 on a regular basis.

Well Connected offers people a space to positively explore hobbies, introduce new interests, and boost their self-esteem and confidence.

Befriending is offered through 1-1 matches with the goal of joining group-based activities. Equally important, befriending pairs are matched based on common hobbies and interests and where possible, will take place locally. We offer befriending services face-to-face and over the phone.

Activities you choose to do while befriending can range from going for walks and getting a coffee, to painting and crafting, to running and being outdoors. We can adapt the befriending (where possible) to your needs.

Who is Well Connected Befriending for?

If you are feeling lonely, isolated, or socially withdrawn then our befriending service could be right for you. Well Connected is suitable for people over the age of 16 living in East Lothian who feel that they could benefit from a regular companion either face to face or over the phone. After an initial assessment you will be added to a waiting list and then matched with a volunteer. We do not offer home visits.

How long does it last?

Befriender volunteers and participants meet up regularly on a weekly basis for 1 hour, over an agreed period (determined during the assessment). Meeting up can be flexible or set on a specific day each week.

How to access our befriending?

We will talk to you about what is involved and will ask you to fill out a form to share a bit more information with us.

Please note, there is a waiting list for a befriending match.

Note your interest in Befriending

Want to become a Befriender Volunteer?

Are you a compassionate and caring person with a keen interest in mental health? Are you sociable and friendly? Befriender volunteers provide support and companionship to people who are struggling with their mental health and feeling isolated or lonely.