Meath Befriending Service: Providing companionship to people who are socially isolated through a home visit from a befriending volunteer.

About Meath Befriending Service

Meath Befriending Service is a project run by Meath Volunteer Centre. Meath Befriending Service recruits and trains volunteers to visit people who are socially  isolated. The Service is designed to alleviate the negative impacts loneliness can have on people and improve clients wellbeing through social interaction. All Meath Befriending Service volunteers are screened, Garda vetted and supported by professional staff.

Referrals:

People who wish to avail of this service may be referred by a family member, friend, their Public Health Nurse or other health professionals. People may also make a self-referral.

How does it work?

Should you or a family member engage in the befriending programme, a befriending volunteer will be assigned, and will visit once per week to provide companionship. Potential clients must undergo an initial assessment to ensure the service is best suited to their needs. Befriending Volunteers are not there to replace professional carers and will not carry out home help services.

Who are Meath Volunteer Centre?

Meath Volunteer Centre is a county-wide, community based organisation that was established in 2008 to support and promote volunteering in County Meath. Meath Volunteer Centre offers a range of supports and services to both volunteers and volunteer involving organisations, such as:

• A Free Volunteer Placement Service
• An online database of volunteer opportunities
• Advice, training and information around best
• practice issues when involving volunteers
• Garda Vetting

For more information about Meath Befriending Service contact:

• 0469280790
• info@volunteermeath.ie
• Unit 7 Kells Business Park, Cavan Road, Kells, Meath