Elderly befriending - any experiences?

[Blankspace4]

Is anyone here involved with elderly befriending services and have any experiences to share? It’s been something I’ve been thinking about for a while. I don’t have children (and not sure I will) and do find myself a bit lonely / bored at weekends and occasional evenings. Wondering whether I could use some free time to do some good locally. All of my elderly relatives have since passed away but I know how grateful I have been for their friends from younger generations who have provided some support and companionship. I am in London and suspect there are some charities that coordinate but wanted to ask for anyone’s experiences if there is anyone who will share?

Thanks, Blank

Just marking my place for info

I did. I befriended a lovely lady, coordinated by a charity.

Initially it was an hour a week for coffee and a chat. We became truly good friends and used to go on trips to the theatre together.

When o was on mat leave with DS I went a lot. She loved seeing him, abd I loved her advice (though she was totally shocked at some of the modern rules!)

She died a year ago abd I still miss her.

Good luck

It's similar but not exactly what you're asking - but I volunteer for the cinnamon trust. I walk dogs for elderly people who can't walk their own dogs anymore. We always have a nice chat before and after the walks and it helps them a lot because they don't have to give up their pets. It's great all round!

Thanks both. I’m guessing Age UK would be a good place to start, but may do some research in case their are also local charities that coordinate.

I’m not great with dogs (it’s not that I don’t like them, just never owned one, so wouldn’t be confident)!