Bield’s befriending initiative has proved hugely successful and is now being launched at its Dean Court Retirement Housing development in Bo’ness.

The project aims to recruit friendly and enthusiastic individuals as befrienders – volunteers who provide one-to-one companionship for tenants who feel isolated or who are unable to get out easily on their own. Where possible, they help the tenant to maintain social contacts and become more included in their community or in new activities.

Bield are looking to recruit a Befriender who would assist a tenant to and from their flat to the communal lounge area to join in the Monday Lunch Club and the Church Service on a Sunday morning. The tenant is a wheelchair user and training would be provided.

Retirement housing manager, Alison Lowe, said: “The befriending project is central to Bield’s “free to be” ethos, which supports people to make their own decisions about how they live their lives while also being there to assist them when they need it.

“This is a wonderful opportunity for our tenants who feel isolated or unable to get out on their own. Many would love to be able to do some of the activities they used to, and with the support of someone else this could be possible again.”

Enquiries are welcome from people of all ages over 16. Full training and support will be given and out-of-pocket expenses will be paid. A minimum commitment of six months is required.

Please note that these are volunteer, unpaid positions. We thank everyone for their enquiry; however, we hope that you understand that not all enquiries will result in volunteer placements.

If you are interested, or would like more information, please call Alison Lowe on 01506 823 839.