Celebrating the power of befriending on World Friendship Day

“It helps me as much as it helps him.” Read Trevor & John’s befriending story

This World Friendship Day, we’re celebrating the awesome power of befriending!

Social connections are an essential part of all our lives and can have incredible positive effects on our overall well-being and mental health. We believe that befriending is a two-way street, and our volunteers benefit from the friendships as much as our older neighbours.

We caught up with pals Trevor and John to find out about their befriending journey.

When John had to take time off from work due to a heart condition, he started to look for volunteering opportunities he would enjoy to boost his well-being. 

John said, “I just got in a rut. After being an engineer for 25 years, I was stuck at home all day, doing nothing. I just needed something to do, so I volunteered for a few things. 

“b:friend introduced me to Trevor about six months ago, and it’s been brilliant. It helps me as much as it helps him. I enjoy his company; he has some great stories to tell. It’s like talking to my granddad.”

Trevor, who suffered a stroke, said catching up with John every week had been a welcomed change as he can’t get out as much as he used to. He said, “It’s like a bit of fresh air. It’s a fresh perspective. We get to talk about different subjects. It’s been great.”

John added, “It’s been good for us both. Just seeing Trevor for an hour a week has really helped my mental health as well. If I’m passing, I pop in to see if he’s alright. We’re getting beef sandwiches tomorrow!”