Involved in running befriending programmes? Volunteer Now co-ordinates the Befriending Network which is focused on bringing together organisations providing or wanting to provide a befriending service for older people (as well as other client groups).

Benefits of membership (which is free) includes:

• Access to expertise shared between organisations on good practice.
• Opportunities to build links with other befriending organisations.
• Information on funding opportunities.
• Training opportunities e.g. how to establish and run a befriending service.
• Listing in a Directory of Services which is distributed widely.
• Information on regulatory issues and policy e.g. safeguarding.
• Volunteer recognition opportunities e.g. Volunteers Week.

The Network is there to support any organisation wishing to or currently providing a befriending service no matter its size.

For more information on any of the above please contact Victoria O’Neill: 028 9023 2020 or victoria.o’neill@volunteernow.co.uk