How we can support you
Loneliness is a normal emotion - it’s our brain’s way of letting us know we’re in need of meaningful connection. Many of us feel loneliness more intensely as we get older, and we face more loss - the loss of a loved one, the loss of good health or close family and friends to connect with. We can end up spending much more time on our own than we’d like to.
We will discuss with you how we can help. We might suggest that we match you with a volunteer for company and a friendly chat, or we could help you join group activities based on your preferences. We always consider your interests and personality to make sure you get what’s best for you. We also keep in touch with you regularly to make sure everyone is happy. Please read our service user involvement statement >
“My volunteer’s warm welcome gave me a feeling of being wanted and restored my confidence. With the frequent visits and activities, I’ve managed to get back on my feet.
I cannot thank them enough for helping me get my life back again.”
How to make a referral
The majority of those visited are older people but we take anyone from 60 years onwards. We visit those who are housebound, who live alone or with a partner and/or who are unable to attend group activities independently. For those who are able, we help to connect with group activities that suit you. Before making a referral, please read our guidelines and our safeguarding statement.
You can refer yourself to our scheme. If you’re a friend, neighbour or a professional working with someone who would benefit from using the scheme, you can refer them but make sure you’ve discussed it with them first.
Fill in our online referral form.
A member of our team will be in touch with you for a chat.
We will then either start looking for the right volunteer to link you to, based on factors like your location or your interests or help you connect with group activities that would suit you.
When we have discussed the right option for you, we’ll either introduce you to your befriending volunteer or take you along to a group activity and make sure you are happy to continue.
“We go for coffee at the garden centre or on little trips, and we laugh all the time. We talk about all sorts. I’m so grateful for the friendship and help.
I don’t feel trapped inside anymore.”
What is it like to be part of The Link Visiting Scheme?
Wondering what it’s like to be part of the Link family? Here are some of the stories that have come out of the relationships between our fantastic volunteers and their Link Friends.
“We chat while cooking and Louisa becomes animated and happy”