Reducing loneliness and isolation
Our befriending scheme, Swindon Circles, is designed to alleviate loneliness and improve the wellbeing of our most isolated residents by linking you with a volunteer with similar interests and values.
What you can expect
If you are experiencing loneliness and would like to have more social contact through a volunteer visiting you at home, or calling you regularly for a chat, apply for Swindon Circles and we will try to match you with a volunteer.
Each referral is assessed for suitability. Once your referral is allocated to the service, one of our Live Well navigators will be in touch to discuss your referral further and answer any questions you may have.
Your navigator will try to match you with a volunteer who will offer companionship either in-person or through telephone befriending. Matching an appropriate volunteer is not guaranteed as we have a limited number of volunteers who are able to make the time commitment that Swindon Circles requires.
Please note: The service is not designed to replace care services but instead, adds value through companionship.
Eligibility
The Swindon Circles programme is available to individuals who:
- are housebound
- have less than five hours of social contact a week. This does not include time spent with a paid or unpaid carer.
- live in Swindon
- are aged 18 or older
Accessing the service
If you would like some companionship through Swindon Circles, complete our online referral.
Alternatively, contact us for further information.