The document outlines a befriending service called Friends for Life that aims to reduce loneliness and social isolation among people aged 50+ in Torfaen, Wales. It establishes community hubs where activities are decided by members, recruits befrienders aged 16-70, and works with partner organizations to provide a "one stop shop" of support services. In its first six months, 912 people participated in activities and 20 befrienders were recruited. The case study of "Mr. M" illustrates how the program helped one man become more social and confident after bereavement.

1. Friends
For Life
A Befriending
Service
Emma Davies – Community Befriending Co-ordinator

2. Friends for Life Project
•Need identified through consultation
•Befriending Service throughout Torfaen for lonely and
isolated people aged 50+
•Establishment of Community Hubs
•Programme of activities decided by the people
•Recruitment of Befrienders

3. How Does Our Project
Differ?
•New Partnership approach established with local
agencies Age Concern Torfaen, Torfaen Mind and
Crossroads Care
• Befriending encourages people to become re-engaged
with their community
• A ‘One Stop Shop’ of information
• Opening doors for further opportunities
• Skill building identified for both clients and befrienders
•Community hubs will be sustainable and owned by the
community
•Hubs are client focused and allow engagement for all
members of the community

4. Impact of the Project
•In the first six months 912 people took part in activities
•Recruitment of 20 Befrienders aged 16-70
•Reduce Social Isolation
•Improve Confidence
•Development of social skills
•Acceptance of people
•Identifying gaps in the community
•Improved awareness of older people
•Healthy and active lifestyle

5. Case Study: Mr M
• Mr M, Suffered close bereavement
• Recently moved to the area
Befriending Intervention:
• Home befriending initiated
• Confidence and sense of social isolation has been reduced.
• Bereavement counselling also identified with partner organisation.
Quotes:
“I think that I’ve become more sociable and confident. I’ve been making friends and
have there numbers so now we call each other”
Client Mr M
“It’s the first time I’ve heard Dad admit what a wonderful time he is having, since
Mum died and he was actually smiling when he was talking about it. So a big
thank you to you and your team!
Daughter of Client Mr M

6. Access/ Integration &
Community Engagement
• Intergenerational projects with local schools
• Client become members of Friends for Life and receive
negotiated discounts with local shops and services
• Guests speakers attend hubs
• Consultation on local issues
• Breaking down barriers by bringing local services to clients

7. Contact Details
Email: emma.davies@ageconcerntorfaen.org
Telephone: 01495 769264