Slough CVS’ Wellbeing Friend Service for isolated and vulnerable residents of Slough, along with the unpaid carers and their cared for, has been running for over two years now, with many of our volunteers with us from the start!

In celebration of Befriending Week, the team organised a social gathering for all our existing and new Wellbeing Friend volunteers.

Shahid Qazi, Wellbeing Co-ordinator said, “I’d like to say a massive thank you to all our Wellbeing Friend Volunteers, both past and present for the time, energy, and passion you have given to this volunteer role!”

The Wellbeing Friend, telephone befriending service was set up in March 2020, in response to the Covid-19 national lockdowns. During this time, over 40 volunteers have supported the service and over 160 Slough residents, carers, and former carers have been supported through weekly wellbeing phone calls.

By providing a friendly voice and listening ear, our volunteers have helped them feel more connected and less isolated at an extremely difficult time, by keeping them mentally stimulated with meaningful conversations and gently encouraging them to take daily walks, art classes and physical activity.

Twenty-five Wellbeing Friend volunteers joined us for a buffet lunch and light refreshments, sharing their personal experiences and lovely stories of how they have been helping and supporting their allocated clients with calls and other signposting in the community.

One Wellbeing Friend Mohan said: “I provide call in Punjabi due to the language barrier for my client, but it is so much more convenient for my client to speak in their own language, I have made it easy for them to express their feelings and thoughts. I also love the fact that I can break the pattern of loneliness and offer companionship.  

“I feel that volunteering offers me a great balance in my life and gives me the opportunity to make a positive impact on someone else’s life.” 

Kinder Bassi, Slough Carers Support & Wellbeing Manager said: “Not everyone has a family or friend support network that they can rely on for guidance and advice to help them. Volunteers can help fill this gap by offering their free time and providing support.”

If you or someone you know is interested in volunteering as a Wellbeing Friend, please get in with Kinder at kinder@sloughcvs.org.uk