About Cotswold friends
Cotswold Friends: Providing Friendship, Support and Transport to the Elderly
Cotswold Friends is a local charity that has been providing friendship, support and transport to older and vulnerable people in the north Cotswold community for many years. The charity was established with the aim of combating loneliness and isolation among elderly people in the area. With its voluntary services, Cotswold Friends has been able to improve health and wellbeing while supporting independent living.
The charity's mission is to provide practical help, emotional support, companionship and social activities for older people who may be isolated or lonely. They offer a range of services including befriending, transport assistance, home visits, telephone support as well as social events such as coffee mornings and lunch clubs.
Befriending Service
Cotswold Friends' befriending service provides regular visits from volunteers who offer companionship to those who are feeling lonely or isolated. This service is particularly important for those who live alone or have limited contact with family members or friends. Volunteers are carefully matched with clients based on their interests so that they can build meaningful relationships over time.
Transport Assistance
The charity also offers transport assistance which helps older people get out of their homes by providing them with transportation to appointments or social events. This service ensures that elderly individuals can maintain their independence while still being able to access essential services such as medical appointments.
Home Visits
Cotswold Friends' home visit service provides regular visits from volunteers who check on clients' wellbeing while offering practical help around the house if needed. Volunteers can assist with tasks such as shopping or light housework which can be difficult for some elderly individuals.
Telephone Support
For those who may not require face-to-face contact but still need emotional support, Cotswold Friends offers telephone support where volunteers call clients regularly just to chat about anything they want. This service helps combat loneliness by providing an opportunity for conversation without the need for physical contact.
Social Events
Cotswold Friends also organizes social events such as coffee mornings and lunch clubs which provide an opportunity for older people to meet new friends and socialize. These events are held in a safe and welcoming environment where everyone is encouraged to participate.
Volunteering Opportunities
Cotswold Friends relies heavily on volunteers who give their time, skills, and energy to support the charity's work. Volunteers are trained and supported by the charity's staff so that they can provide high-quality services to clients. Volunteering with Cotswold Friends is a rewarding experience that allows individuals to make a positive impact on their community while gaining valuable skills.
Conclusion
Cotswold Friends is an essential charity that provides vital services to elderly individuals in the north Cotswold community. The charity's befriending service, transport assistance, home visits, telephone support as well as social events have helped combat loneliness and isolation among older people while improving health and wellbeing. With its dedicated team of volunteers, Cotswold Friends has been able to make a significant difference in the lives of many elderly individuals who may have otherwise been forgotten or neglected.
cotswoldfriends.org
