Volunteer Call Companion

Re-engage are looking for call companions (telephone befrienders). Would you like to make a real difference to the life of a lonely older person?

The call companions idea is very simple: as a volunteer call companion you would call the same older person between two and four times a month at a mutually agreed time for an informal chat. Calls will last for around 30 minutes, although it’s up to you how long you want to talk for!

These calls provide a lifeline of friendship for older people, and the regular, warm, friendly chats and companionship provide a vital link with the outside world from which they have become isolated.

Over time, you and the older person you have been matched with will get to know each other well and together you will spend many hours full of fun, laughter and stories.

Just like our tea parties (which are unfortunately on hold at the moment), the call companions programme supports older people living alone or in sheltered housing or residential care, who have little or no contact with family or friends.

Skills

We are looking for call companions with the following skills and attributes:

- good conversation skills
- an enthusiasm for speaking on the phone and making connections remotely
- a friendly, empathetic approach
- the ability to really listen to people
- patience
- a good sense of humour
- a passion for improving the lives of lonely and isolated older people
- basic computer literacy (including the ability to use email)

- access to a smartphone or iPad