Volunteering as a Befriender is one of the simplest and most meaningful ways to make a difference in someone’s life. A friendly chat, a regular visit, or a weekly phone call can lift someone’s spirits more than you might imagine.
People choose to volunteer with Fareham Good Neighbours for many reasons:
A little of your time can brighten someone’s whole week. Many of the people we support don’t see anyone else regularly, so your kindness has a genuine impact.
If you like chatting, listening, and getting to know people, Befriending is a natural fit.
Our volunteers often tell us they simply want to help their community. Befriending is a neighbourly way to support someone nearby.
Some volunteers have watched a family member, friend, or neighbour become isolated and want to help others in the same situation.
Befriending brings structure, motivation, and a sense of doing something that matters - whether you’re retired, working, or somewhere in between.
Many volunteers say the conversations, stories, and companionship enrich their own lives too. It’s a two-way relationship.
A weekly or fortnightly visit - or a regular phone or WhatsApp chat - fits easily around work, caring responsibilities, or other commitments.
If you enjoy spending time with people, we’d love to welcome you to our volunteer team.
It is believed that every volunteer gets something different from their volunteering experience, including the opportunity to:
- make a positive difference to people's lives
- improve self-esteem, confidence and wellbeing
- gain invaluable work experience
- receive training and develop new skills
- use those newly found skills to step up your career ladder
- use existing skills and knowledge to benefit the local community
- meet new people from a range of backgrounds
- feel valued and part of a team
- change the way things work for the better
Join us in making a real difference in our community! Become a Volunteer Befriender with Fareham Good Neighbours.
Some of the most fascinating stories in Fareham are waiting to be shared. As a Volunteer Befriender, you will be matched with a local resident—often an older person who can't get out as easily as they used to—for regular, relaxed visits.
By dedicating just an hour or two weekly or fortnightly, you aren't just volunteering; you’re building a connection, sharing a laugh, and bringing a fresh perspective to someone's week.
· Bringing the Outside In: Visiting a client in their home for a regular, relaxed chat and a warm drink.
· Creating Moments of Joy: Reminiscing, sharing stories, or listening to theirs.
· Providing a companionship: Offering consistent companionship to someone referred to us by family, the NHS, or social services who truly needs a friendly face.
You don’t need special qualifications - just a big heart and a little time. We are looking for people who are:
· Great Listeners & Conversationalists: You enjoy hearing stories and can comfortably hold a warm conversation.
· Patient & Empathetic: Some of our clients live with early dementia, or failing sight and hearing. Your kindness, patience, and gentle understanding will make them feel safe and valued.
· Reliable: You are consistent, reachable and reliable.
· Deeply Rewarding.
· Easily fits around your existing work, family, or retirement schedule.
· Directly support and strengthen your own Fareham community.
· Necessary online training provided.
Please note that an Enhanced DBS check will be required as part of your application process.
For more information about us and the role please contact our Volunteer Coordinator, Mira Bharti on Mirab.fgn@gmail.com for more information.