Friendship Scheme

The Friendship Scheme recruits volunteers to be a friend to an adult with learning difficulties, matching people’s personalities, hobbies and interests or pastimes to ensure the development of successful social relationships.

The main objectives of the scheme are to promote friendships on a 1:1 basis, to build social networks within the community, and to encourage the use of community facilities. Established in 1994 it is currently funded by a grant from the Community Fund and voluntary donations.

The Friendship Scheme operates in the following areas: East Herts & Waltham Abbey, Welwyn & Hatfield, Hertsmere, as well as St Albans & Harpenden and Stevenage & North Herts

What do volunteers and friends gain from this scheme?                                                                        Click here to read  Jane & Alison’s story 

• Confidence and increased self esteem
• Further friendships within clubs, pubs and societies
• A chance to do something different, fun and shared experiences  
• Support from other volunteers and friends at regular FS group social activities
• Ongoing support from the co-ordinator

Other benefits for volunteers include:

• Training and support
• Out of pocket expenses
• Matched to someone locally
• Creditable experience enhancing future work prospects

Click here to download the Volunteer Application Form

 Click here to learn more about our volunteer induction process

For further information please contact one of our Co-ordinators:

Friendship Scheme Co-ordinator
Guideposts Trust
82a High Street
Ware
Hertfordshire
SG12 9AT
Tel 01920 484946

• St Albans & Harpenden – Jane Reidy – Email: jreidy@guidepoststrust.org.uk
• Stevenage & North Herts – Carol LeGrand – Email: clegrand@guidepoststrust.org.uk
• East Herts,Waltham Abbey, Welwyn & Hatfield & Hertsmere - Emma Metcalfe – emetcalfe@guidepoststrust.org.uk