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about Link what is Link? what is befriending? volunteer recruitment contact details |
East
Fife
Mental Health
Befriending
Project What is BEFRIENDING ? Befriending is different to a friendship which is a private, mutual relationship. Befriending is a service offered, supported and monitored by LINK . It involves meeting clients, getting to know them, and if all goes well, negotiating a regular pattern of rewarding contact and support, which is mutally agreeable. Befriending is offered on an individual basis. This involves a weekly or fortnightly commitment of 2 or 3 hours. Activities could involve a walk, support to attend a drop-in centre, visits to museums and art centres or a simple cup of coffee and a chat. All volunteers have the support of the project co-ordinator. Befriending can be short or long term, depending on the individual's needs. Expenses incurred as a result of befriending voluntary work will be reimbursed. A comment from one of our volunteers: "I'm now in my 6th year as a volunteer befriender and I am as committed to it as ever. Firstly, I find it a constant challenge, not only because every human being is obviously unique but because each visit, each encounter is also unique. It may be a low day for my befriendee, and almost silent day, when verbal communication is less important than a comforting presence, or there may be a day when the clouds have lifted for a time. Secondly, I find volunteering a caring opportunity. One tries to step into another's shoes and try to look through their eyes, hopefully demonstrating insight and concern. Thirdly, it means change. It is a real joy to see the real sign of a "sparkle". The final change eventually meaning that a client can move on and perhaps, who knows, go on to become a befriender. |