Creating Connections is a new and exciting prevention service for those aged 65 and over. It aims to reduce loneliness and isolation in Worthing through companionship, shared interests, and community participation. It is hoped, that by reducing social isolation and loneliness, we can contribute to supporting people to remain living independently, for as long as possible.

Central to the service is the help of our wonderful volunteers.

There are three types of volunteers who help with Creating Connections: One-to-One Befrienders, Meet and Greeters, and Small Group Leaders. You can read more about each role below.

If you are interested in volunteering as part of Creating Connections, please contact our Volunteer Coordinator via our online form.

One-to-One Befrienders

One-to-One Befrienders help the service’s members connect with others through weekly telephone contact or companionship visits.

This role is a flexible and enjoyable opportunity to spend time providing emotional support and companionship to an older person, helping reduce feelings of loneliness and social isolation by connecting them to others in their community.

This role is based within the community, so you will need access to a car or be able to use public transport to travel within the Worthing area.

We are looking for friendly and reliable people who:

• Have great listening skills and an ability to communicate with a range of different people.
• Can empathise with older people who are feeling lonely or isolated.
• Have a non-judgemental attitude and is accepting of people's differences.
• Have some knowledge of local services in Worthing area.
• Can maintain confidentiality and comply with appropriate policies.
• Can work unsupervised in the local community (support and training will be provided).
• Can provide satisfactory DBS Check.

Meet and Greeters

Meet and Greeters welcome people taking part in group activity sessions, including serving refreshments and keeping an attendance register.

Specifically, Meet and Greeters help reduce feelings of loneliness and social isolation in service members by spending time with them and giving encouragement to connect with other like-minded individuals through shared activities and interests such as music, exercise, board games, quizzes, and much more.

Volunteers will be matched with an activity group that suits their preferences around time, frequency, and location in Worthing.

We are looking for friendly, open, and reliable people who:

• Are welcoming, especially to people who may be less confident about attending a group for a first time or entering a room when they don't know anyone.
• Are honest and reliable.
• Have the ability to make and serve tea and coffee for a small group of older people.
• Have great listening skills and an ability to communicate with a range of different people.
• Can empathise with older people who are feeling lonely or isolated.
• Have a non-judgemental attitude and is accepting of people's differences.
• Have some knowledge of local services in Worthing area.
• Can maintain confidentiality and comply with appropriate policies.
• Have the ability to join a group on a regular basis.
• Can provide satisfactory DBS Check.

Get in touch

If you are interested in volunteering as part of Creating Connections, please contact our Volunteer Coordinator via our online form.