A Lisburn woman has been volunteering as a befriender with the South Eastern Trust for eight years, building a long-term friendship with an older person through weekly visits and calls.

The Befriending Service, part of the Trust’s Safe and Well Service, matches volunteers with people aged 65 and over who are experiencing loneliness or social isolation. Prolonged loneliness can harm mental and physical health.

Rachel O’Reilly, a health development specialist with the Trust, said volunteers make a significant difference. Feedback from service users and volunteers describes the regular contact as life-changing and essential for building connections.

The volunteer, identified as Pauline, said she became aware of the service through leaflets at her workplace and decided to apply. She said she now recommends volunteering to others, noting the difference a single visit can make for someone who lives alone.

The Trust is urging more people to consider becoming volunteer befrienders. Anyone interested can contact the service at [email protected].