CHURCHES across Bromsgrove welcomed the introduction of a new Crosslinks befriending scheme.
The project, which s intended to tackle social isolation mainly among older people in the district, was well-received at the Churches Together in Bromsgrove strategy meeting on July 8.
Chair of Crosslinks and minister of Bromsgrove Methodist Church Centre, Rev Richard Wilde, told the gathering two volunteer befrienders had began their visits this month and there was already a need for more visits to meet the needs.
The scheme was launched following reports loneliness was a significant issue for many living in and around the town. It found sometimes feelings of isolation occurred when a husband or wife had died, or children lived a long distance away.
Rev Wilde said: “Where once neighbours ‘popped in on each other regularly’ in many places that is no longer the case.
“Our project aims to match trained volunteer befrienders with women and men who would benefit from a fortnightly visit.”
The need is much greater than one church alone would want to meet.
Anyone who wishes to become a befriender will need a reference from their local church and be willing to undergo some basic training.
Referrals for befriendees can be made to the co-ordinator at Bromsgrove Methodist Church Centre, 19 Stratford Road, Bromsgrove or by telephone on 01527 835843.
