A COMMUNITY befriending initiative which helps older residents across Berwickshire stay connected, build friendships and rediscover confidence through meaningful social activities and support has received funding to continue its vital work.
The BeFriend service, run by Berwickshire Housing Association, brings together volunteers and older residents aged over 65 to combat loneliness and isolation, an issue that can be particularly acute in rural communities.
With funding proving hard to come by, a grant from the Scottish Procurement Alliance’s (SPA) Community Benefit Fund has ensured that key elements of the scheme can continue, including helping pay for the community minibus service. The grant helps to cover costs including rental, fuel and driver expenses.
Many older people face increasing isolation due to factors such as bereavement, declining mobility or the loss of long-standing social networks. The BeFriend initiative provides a vital lifeline, offering regular one-to-one contact and opportunities to get out and about through organised outings, activities and community events.
The service has become a cornerstone of community support in Berwickshire, helping hundreds of older people build confidence, maintain social connections and improve their overall wellbeing.
Lesley Peaty, Regional Director at the Scottish Procurement Alliance, said:
“Community initiatives like BeFriend show how strong partnerships can make a real difference locally. By supporting projects through the SPA Community Benefit Fund, we are helping organisations such as Berwickshire Housing Association create opportunities that strengthen communities and improve quality of life for residents.”
Dougie Paterson, Social Innovation Lead at Berwickshire Housing Association, said:
“Loneliness and isolation can have a profound impact on older people’s wellbeing, particularly in rural areas. BeFriend helps bring people together — whether that’s through a friendly chat, a shared activity or a day out in the community.
“We’ve seen first-hand the difference that meaningful social connections can make to people’s confidence, happiness and sense of belonging.”
Alongside BeFriend, Berwickshire Housing Association also works with partners, including award winning charity Penumbra, to deliver additional community support initiatives.
One such scheme is the BeWell programme, which provides specialist mental health and wellbeing support to tenants experiencing challenges that may affect their ability to sustain their tenancy. Since its launch in 2020, BeWell has been awarded a total of £60,000 from the SPA’s Community Benefit Fund to support its work.
Together, these services form part of the association’s wider commitment to supporting residents to live well, remain connected and thrive within their communities.
The BeFriend service is always looking for new volunteers who have time to offer companionship and support to older residents.