A text banner stating 1.4 million older people in the UK are often lonely. We are changing that. With an icon graphic of a person and their community

Abbots Friends 

Join us as a volunteer to help tackle loneliness

We are looking for volunteers in Hertfordshire to help us fight loneliness.

Everyone needs someone to talk to and spend time with, but that’s not always easy, especially for those living alone or facing health challenges that make it difficult to get out and about. That’s why we offer a free companion care via Abbots Friends.

Unlike our homecare services, which focus on practical assistance, Abbot Friends is all about companionship. Our volunteers provide meaningful social interaction, offering a sense of connection and helping individuals become more engaged with their communities.

Our mission is to combat loneliness and isolation, improving the health, confidence, and well-being of those who may be vulnerable to feeling disconnected. Whether it’s sharing a conversation, going for a walk, or simply spending time together, we’re here to help people feel seen, heard, and supported.

Send your CV and details to recruitment@abbotscare.com or call us on 0330 094 5511 to apply.

Gift your time this winter

There are over 1 million people in the UK that need you

With 1.4 million older people in the UK facing loneliness, winter can be a particularly difficult time.

By giving just one hour of your time each week, you could become the highlight of someone’s day.

Whether it’s enjoying a cup of tea, chatting about hobbies, watching TV, or simply having a friendly conversation, your companionship can mean the world to someone feeling isolated.

Join Abbots Friends as a volunteer and make a real difference by brightening the lives of people in your community.

 

Care Workers and Client laugh at an Abbots Care tea party

Why are companion care services needed?

Loneliness is a serious problem. Research shows that as well as being negative emotional experiences, both loneliness and social isolation can contribute to serious health conditions such as anxiety and depression.

But for people who live alone or whose health conditions prevent them from getting out and about, getting the social interaction they need is a challenge. 

Companion care is a good option for people who:

  • are experiencing social isolation or loneliness
  • are feeling depressed or anxious
  • need support or transport to go to appointments and activities in the community

What does companion care involve?

Joining us as an Abbots Friends volunteer means you will be supporting one, or several people in your community through a variety of ways suited to them, and to you. This could include:

  • Social interaction and companionship: Spending time together, engaging in conversation, playing games
  • Emotional support: Offering a listening ear, providing encouragement when needed 
  • Practical assistance: Helping with light housekeeping and errands
  • Transportation: Providing transportation to appointments, social engagements and other activities.

What are the mutual benefits of companion care?

Companion care can provide a number of mutual benefits including:

  • Reduced social isolation and loneliness
  • Improved mental well-being
  • Enhanced quality of life, helping you to take part, or helping someone else take part in activities they enjoy, and staying connected with your community

Why choose to volunteer with Abbots Friends?

Abbots Friends volunteers are fully trained and DBS checked, this is paid for by Abbots Care. We ask that you undergo training to ensure you feel comfortable getting out in the community and supporting those that need your help.

We take great care to match you with a client that shares your interests, or who we think will be a good fit. You can visit the same person every time, so you’ll be able to build up a genuine and meaningful relationship over months and years. Or you can choose to volunteer and help several people – the choice is yours!

Abbots Care is an award-winning, CQC Outstanding rated care provider, so you can be confident that you will be in safe hands. 

Receiving companion care from Abbots Friends

If you or a loved one could benefit from companion care services contact us via email – enquiries@abbotsfriends.com or phone us on 0330 094 5511

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