Kilburn Good Neighbours

Kilburn Good Neighbours is our Queen's Award-winning home befriending scheme based here at Abbey, established for over 25 years. 

Our wonderful team of volunteer ‘Good Neighbours’ provide befriending visits to the homes of over 65s. Volunteers might engage in meaningful conversations over a cup of tea, play a board game or complete puzzles together, accompany their ‘befriendee’ on short walks, or assist with essential errands for those who may have difficulty going out. We also organise events, trips and parties for our Kilburn Good Neighbours members and volunteers and involve them in other projects at the centre where possible.

Kilburn Good Neighbours serves elderly residents across areas that fall within the scheme's catchment boundary which roughly covers the NW6 postcode of the London Borough of Camden. This includes applicable neighbourhoods of Kilburn, South Hampstead, West Hampstead, Fortune Green, and Swiss Cottage. However, the Scheme Coordinators may use their discretion and elderly residents who are in need of this service but are living just outside of its catchment boundary may be accepted onto the scheme. 

These areas are characterised by a diverse population, with a mix of long-standing residents and newer communities, including many from immigrant backgrounds. High levels of poverty, social isolation, and health inequalities disproportionately affect older residents. Many scheme members live alone, are housebound, or face mobility challenges that make accessing support and social connections difficult. The scheme plays a crucial role in reducing loneliness and improving well-being.

If you know somebody who may benefit from having a volunteer befriender, or fancy having one yourself, please contact us on 0207 604 4823 or kgn@abbeycc-kilburn.org.uk to find out how to become a member. Please note that the scheme always has a waiting list. Our Coordinator works part-time; if she is not in on the day of your call then leave a message and she will get back to you as soon as she can. 

“My volunteer is being virtually my lifeline throughout this difficult period where I have to face medical, mental and physical problems of immobility. She has been there for me whenever I needed her as well as offering me continued encouragement and inspiration – motivating me to face my daily problems and deal with deep depression. Indeed she made me believe that life is worth living and the future is carrying much better promise for all of us. KGN and Abbey CC should be congratulated for initiating and supporting the idea of having volunteers who are helping immensely the elderly and vulnerable members of the community.” – KGN Member