Befriending (No Longer Available)

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

 

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