If you are feeling anxious, depressed or lonely, Saheliya’s Befriending Service can introduce you to a female volunteer who can provide you with one–to–one social support for companionship and to increase your confidence.
Befriending includes:
- Social activities like going to the cinema, swimming, exercise etc.
- Going with you to participate in Saheliya or other leisure activities.
Who are the befrienders?
Our befrienders are female volunteers from a range of different backgrounds. In addition to English they speak a wide variety of minority ethnic languages. Volunteers are selected, trained and supported by our Befriending Coordinator, and are asked to give a commitment of four hours fortnightly (including travelling time) for at least one year. They are recruited according to their skills and the time that they are available.
How do I get a befriender?
You can contact Saheliya and we will give you further information. We will match you with a befriender by asking you to fill in a form with information such as your age, special interests, language and a description of yourself and your current situation. It is up to you to decide if you would like a befriender who speaks your first language.
What happens when we find a befriender?
Once we match you with a befriender, we will arrange for you to meet her at our office. After that, it will be up to you and the befriender to arrange when and where to meet on a regular basis. The service is free; it can be long or short term according to your needs.
Befriending Expenses
Saheliya subsidies your activities for up to £15 each time you meet up.
If you would like more information regarding this service please contact us or to apply complete a Referral Form, fill it, email or send it to our address.
Saheliya’s Befriending activities are funded by the City of Edinburgh Council, the Scottish Government Equality Fund and LankellyChase Foundation