Kilburn Good Neighbours
Kilburn Good Neighbours is our Queen's Award-winning home befriending scheme based here at Abbey, established for over 24 years.
Our lovely group of volunteer ‘Good Neighbours’ provide befriending visits to the homes of over 65s in the areas of Kilburn and South Hampstead. Volunteers might have a chat over a cup of tea, play a game of scrabble, or pick up a pint of milk for their ‘befriendee’ if getting out and about is difficult for them.
We also organise regular events, trips and parties for our Kilburn Good Neighbours members and volunteers and involve them in other projects at the centre where possible.
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
“It’s a great rewarding feeling knowing that I was able to help someone however small or big their query and knowing how grateful they are for volunteering my time and effort. The other plus is getting to know their personal background story of a full life they’ve lived which is always interesting and fascinating in itself.” - KGN Volunteer
Volunteering as a befriender
Kilburn Good Neighbours has over 40 registered volunteers and they tell us that they look forward to seeing our members as much as you enjoy the visits. Volunteering as a befriender can also help you build skills and experience in communication, community work and working with older people. We are always on the look out for new volunteers to take part in this supportive programme. If you would like to find out more about becoming a befriender volunteer, we would love to hear from you. Please check out our volunteering page for full information and to apply.
