| Dundee Association for Mental Health feels the project — 4-ever-Friends — can address the issues and meet the individual needs of many older adults in the city.
DAMH already runs the Two’s Company Befriending Service, but was being overwhelmed by demand from over-60s and decided to set up a new facility specifically for older people.
It applied for funding and received £281,674 over five years from the Big Lottery Fund and £22,500 over three years from Lloyds TSB Foundation to launch the service.
The service will include both one-to-one and group activities.
“4-ever-Friends is a befriending service for people over the age of 60 who have difficulty in maintaining positive mental wellbeing,” said DAMH development co-ordinator Joan Kennedy.
“We need volunteers who have a spare one to three hours a week to share some social and leisure time with someone who may be very isolated or lonely.
“This could be anything from a home visit, cup of tea and chat to going out on a bus trip or to the theatre.
“We look for volunteers from all walks of life — no experience or qualifications are required.
“If you have a caring nature and a good sense of humour, then you’re the type of person we are looking for.
“You will receive training and all out of pocket expenses.
“Volunteers also have the opportunity to take a role in group work activities, if they wish.
“If anyone is interested in improving the quality of life of an older adult, meeting new people, learning something new —then please get in touch for an informal chat and more information.”
Further information and an application pack is available by calling 01382 227288 or writing to 4-ever-Friends, DAMH, Kandahar House, 71 Meadowside, Dundee. |
