befriending & volunteering

Some of the most socially isolated people in the community in Solihull are those who have or are recovering from a mental illness. Their network of friends and relations may have broken down or their own motivation to maintain contact fallen.
Getting the confidence back to engage with others, going out and seeing beyond their condition is an important part of recovery.

For quite some time the Family Care Trust, with the support of Solihull Metropolitan Borough Council, has operated a befriending service for this minority group. The service can visit anyone of working age having or recovering from mental illness in the Solihull area for an assessment of their individual needs, likes and dislikes, personal goals and desired outcomes. We then match the person to a volunteer who will try and support the service user through social meetings, visits to our weekly drop in, trips out and just chats on the phone. This may all sound rather simple, for what can be a frightening and challenging time in a person’s life. Well, the scheme has been running for many years, so we know that it
can work.

If you would like to know more about the scheme, call or Linda Waldron on 0121 717 5211 or e mail: linda.waldron@familycaretrust.co.uk.

We are always looking for volunteers who are understanding and have the ability to get along with people of all ages, cultures and backgrounds. Apart from getting huge personal satisfaction, volunteering offers an exciting opportunity to develop skills, knowledge and experience. Our volunteers receive training and are supported through experienced supervisors. If you are enthusiastic, have energy and a real desire to help others in our community, why not consider becoming a volunteer with the Family Care Trust. To find out more information, call or Linda Waldron on 0121 717 5211 or e mail: linda.waldron@familycaretrust.co.uk.