Befriender for Nursing home residents

We’re looking for friendly, compassionate volunteers to become Befrienders, offering companionship to residents in a local nursing home. Many of the residents are wheelchair users and may have limited opportunities to get out or enjoy regular social interaction—but they still love good company, interesting conversation, and shared hobbies.

As a volunteer, you’ll spend time one-on-one with residents who enjoy everything from talking about books, playing quizzes, to listening and speaking about Elvis Presley. Some may enjoy gentle strolls or visits over to Canoe Lake, with the support of staff. You will not take any residents out by yourself. 

What the role involves:

• Regular visits to offer friendship, conversation, and companionship
• Supporting residents in enjoying their interests—music, reading, quizzes, or simply sharing stories
• Taking part in social activities or accompanying staff-supported outings (e.g., Canoe Lake trips)
• Helping bring variety, joy, and emotional support to someone’s week

This is a rewarding role for someone who enjoys connecting with others and has a warm, caring nature. You don’t need experience—just good listening skills, reliability, and an hour to spare each week.

Whether you're considering a career in care or simply want to give back to your community, this is a beautiful way to make a meaningful difference.

References:

Professional references can be from a current or past employer, someone you have worked with or volunteered with, or from an education setting such as a teacher. They must have known you for at least two years. 

Character references must be from someone who knows you well on a personal level. It can be a friend, or someone you work with, volunteer with etc. It cannot be a family member. They must have known you personally for at least two years. 

DBS - You will be required to complete a DBS check. You will need photo and proof of address ID for this. 

Please note that if you are selected for this role, you will be volunteering as a visitor and will not receive direct support or supervision from the care home staff, therefore you will need to be confident to volunteer in this role independently. 

Process:

You will need an account to register your interest for this role. Once you have registered your interest you will receive an automatic email with next steps. If you have not received this in a couple of hours, please do get in touch as it may not have registered (volunteering@hiveportsmouth.org.uk). 

You will need to respond to the "Criteria Check" email to progress with this role. 

Please check your junk email folder in case any emails end up there.  Friendly reminder that the charities/organisations emails may end up here too. 

Don't forget you can add up any volunteering hours as part of Team 100 Opportunity - Hive Portsmouth or part of the Donate 100 things challenge Opportunity - Hive Portsmouth.

Skills

Empathy and Compassion: A deep understanding and sensitivity toward the emotional and physical needs of residents with dementia or memory loss. You should be able to offer comfort and companionship with kindness.

Patience: Residents with dementia may have difficulty recalling information or responding quickly, so patience is essential in ensuring they feel heard and respected.

Strong Communication Skills: The ability to communicate effectively with residents, especially those with memory impairments. This includes clear, simple speech and the ability to listen actively.

Active Listening: Being able to listen to residents' stories, memories, and needs, even when they may struggle to articulate themselves. Active listening can provide a sense of validation and connection.

Flexibility and Adaptability: Being flexible with your approach to activities or conversation, as residents’ moods, abilities, and needs may change. Tailoring your interaction based on the individual is important.

Creativity: The ability to engage residents in activities such as reminiscing or reading, often requiring a creative approach to make the experience enjoyable and meaningful for each person.

Reliability and Commitment: Consistency in providing companionship and support, as many residents with dementia may experience heightened feelings of loneliness or confusion. Your regular presence can have a significant impact.

Non-Judgmental Attitude: A caring, open-minded approach is key, as residents may have behaviors or responses that are unfamiliar or challenging. Offering support without judgment is essential.

Respect for Dignity and Privacy: Understanding the importance of maintaining the dignity of residents, respecting their privacy, and ensuring they feel valued and not patronized.