Befriending Services

The simple things that we take for granted can be major problems for someone with or recovering from mental ill health.

Through lack of confidence, social isolation, anxiety etc., activities such as going shopping, using public transport, going out socially, or mixing with other people, can be difficult if not impossible. Yet taking part in social activities is crucial for everyone’s well being, personal and social development, and quality of life .

Guideposts Befriending Scheme in South West Hertfordshire

Established in 1999, Guideposts Befriending Scheme in South West Hertfordshire is one of our longest running schemes and provides an on-going befriending service for people with or recovering from mental health problems.

The scheme offers

• One to one befriending – volunteers give 2-3 hours once a fortnight to visit a client. Activities may include going for a walk, having lunch together, visiting local attractions or having a chat over a drink.
• E-Mail befriending – volunteers spend 10-15 minutes regularly communicating by email with a client who may not feel ready for a one to one relationship. This gives them the opportunity to interact with someone and widen their circle of friends without the social pressure of meeting with a volunteer.
• Group befriending – this social group grew out of the need to provide a service for some clients who were on our waiting list – they spend a few hours every three weeks in a group, accessing and leisure and community facilities.

 The objectives of the scheme are to:

• Promote relationships on a 1:1 basis between a volunteer and a person with mental health problems
• Encourage the use of local facilities and amenities
• Counteract isolation
• Promote personal confidence and encourage independence
• Develop personal life skills/social skills
• Build social networks

Our service depend on the creditable involvement of more than 50 volunteers. We welcome community volunteers from a wide range of backgrounds and experiences. Our volunteers may have experienced mental ill health, are or have been carers and can offer their unique understanding and experience. Others bring experience from all kinds of other paths in life.

‘I attend one of the community social groups, they are a great idea. I get to go to my local pub with others who feel anxious, and play pool and darts like others of my own age would naturally do with theirs. I have become friendly with others in the group and we now meet up to go shopping or have coffee. It’s a great opportunity to get out of the house.’