Tackle loneliness with UniHomes & b:friend
Got an hour a week? Turn it into something special
UniHomes and b:friend are teaming up to help students connect with their community and make a difference to an older person experiencing loneliness.
We believe some of the best connections can happen between people who might never normally meet. By becoming a Telephone Befriender, you can give a little of your time, meet someone new and help us fight loneliness, one friendship at a time.
Become a Telephone Befriender
Telephone befriending is simple. We’ll match you with an older neighbour and you’ll give them a call once a week for around an hour, at a time that works for you both.
There’s no script and no special experience needed. It’s just two people having a natter, sharing stories and getting to know each other.
For an older person who may not speak to many people during the week, that regular phone call can make a huge difference.
Befriending works both ways – you’ll get the chance to connect with someone outside your usual university circle and build a friendship you might never have expected.
Why give it a go?
Make a real difference to an older person experiencing loneliness.
Get to know someone new and build a genuine connection across generations.
Give something back and feel more connected to your wider community.
Build experience for your CV, developing valuable communication, listening and interpersonal skills.
Fit volunteering around uni life, with your weekly call arranged at a time that works for you both.
Access to free and confidential counselling and mental health resources available to all our volunteers
“Befriending Heather has been such a valuable experience. Learning about her life and how she sees the world has taught me valuable lessons that I will carry with me in the future. I have made a friend in a very unexpected place, and I’m very grateful for the weekly biscuits we share. I have so much love for Heather, and for b:friend for bringing us together.”
— Lily, volunteer befriender
What we ask from you
Be friendly, empathetic, and a good listener
Fluency in English
Complete a DBS check within 2 weeks of signing up – Free for our volunteers, paid by b:friend
Minimum 6 months commitment to volunteering
Responsibility: let us know if you have any concerns about your older neighbour, and please keep in touch with your volunteer coordinator
What happens next
Sign up through our volunteer form below and our friendly team will guide you through the next steps, including a DBS check and induction with your assigned Volunteer Coordinator.
Once everything is ready, we’ll find a suitable older neighbour and set up your introduction call for you.