Charity backs campaign to tackle loneliness through befriending

Summarised from 2 outlets · Updated 31 Oct, 06:22 · Archive

Sensory Matters Worcestershire is supporting Befriending Week 2026, running November 1 to 7, to raise awareness of how befriending reduces isolation.

Sensory Matters Worcestershire has joined a national campaign to raise awareness of how social connection combats loneliness and isolation. Befriending Week 2026 runs from November 1 to 7 and celebrates the impact of volunteer befriending schemes.

Volunteer befrienders are matched with individuals to provide telephone befriending, home visiting or activities together in the community. The charity also organises monthly Connections groups around the county to build social connections. During Befriending Week, volunteers across the country will gather online at a Befriending Networks event to raise awareness and celebrate the contributions of befriending volunteers and their supporting staff.

Nikki Poole, community engagement lead at Sensory Matters Worcestershire, said: 'Sometimes simply knowing that someone cares enough to spend time with you, or talking with you can make the world of difference. These social connections help our clients feel valued, build confidence and become more involved in their communities.' Cat Major, communications officer at Befriending Networks, added that befriending can be 'a vital lifeline to help build meaningful connections and improve wellbeing', particularly during the cost-of-living crisis.

How it is being reported

• Charity backs campaign to tackle loneliness through befriendingSensory Matters Worcestershire is supporting Befriending Week 2026, which runs from November 1 to 7.Worcester News · 31 Oct, 05:00
• Charity backs campaign to tackle loneliness through befriendingSensory Matters Worcestershire is supporting Befriending Week 2026, which runs from November 1 to 7.Malvern Gazette · 31 Oct, 05:00

In this story: Sensory Matters Worcestershire · Befriending Networks · Worcestershire

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