New scheme to tackle loneliness in West Berkshire launches this week

Befriend West Berkshire seeking volunteers

A NEW service aimed at tackling loneliness in West Berkshire will be officially launched this week.

Befriend West Berkshire, run by Volunteer Centre West Berkshire, hopes to match volunteers with those who live in social isolation.

The diirector of Volunteer Centre West Berkshire, Garry Poulson, said that the impact of social isolation can be significant on mental health, which the new service hopes to tackle.

He said: “Our aim is to train 30 volunteers who will be matched up with 30 people in West Berkshire who are socially isolated.

“When you see that person walking past your window to get their morning paper and then walk back to their home, they may seem fine, but that person in the shop could be the last person they speak to the whole day.

“Just having someone in your day or in your week can make a tremendous difference to your wellbeing.”

The launch at Caffe Nero in Northbrook Street on Thursday, May 19, will allow both potential volunteers or users to find out more about the service in a relaxed setting.

The launch event will take place from 11am.