The Two’s Company Keswick Befriending Scheme is now into its second year and is continuing to make a difference to the lives of those who are lonely or isolated in the town and the surrounding villages.
Since the scheme started in July 2021 there have been a total of 256 home or outside visits and 74 phone conversations between a volunteer befriender and their linked friend.
Fiona Overend, the scheme co-ordinator, said: “I am constantly amazed and encouraged by the generosity and kindness of our volunteers who are always willing to go the extra mile to benefit others.”
The first annual general meeting for the charity was held recently which gave the opportunity to reflect on the scheme and to look forward to the coming year.
Thanks were extended to all the local volunteers who have contributed to the set-up and the running of the scheme, and to the generosity of those who have funded the first year.
It was also announced that Cumbria Community Foundation had agreed to give £5,000 to fund the running costs for the second year and everyone involved with Two’s Company Keswick offered their sincere thanks for the grant.
Over this year there have been more opportunities for befrienders and their matched friends to meet outside the home, and to link in with other community activities such as Tuesday’s Tonic at Keswick Museum and the Senior Citizens’ Drop-In centre coffee mornings.
Earlier this month more than 20 volunteer befrienders and their linked friends, along with residents, attended an enjoyable and successful coffee and activity afternoon in Greta Gardens. It is hoped that this will now become a regular event.
The befriending scheme is always looking for new volunteers and for new referrals into the scheme. Those interested in finding out more should contact Fiona on 07832 858537.
