Apasen introduced the befriending service to support the local residents in Tower Hamlets. We recognised that there was a real need to help those members of our community, who for a variety
of reasons in their advanced years have become isolated. Loneliness and isolation can have a big impact on the health and wellbeing of older people. Apasen provides a Community Connections service to help tackle the causes of isolation and loneliness. The service is completely free of charge. Our befrienders and volunteer befrienders are well trained and come from all walks of life, they have a wide range of interests as well as proper training to support the community.
A befriender/volunteer will be allocated to the client and full assessment of need will be undertaken, the befriender/volunteer and client will work together over a 12-week period, achieving short and long term goals which will be mutually set. The aim during that 12-week period is to integrate them back into the community either through another service provided by Apasen or a service/
activity of the client’s choice. However, it may not always be possible to achieve this within the 12 week period, particularly if the client has complex mental health issues, for those clients needing extra support the 12 weeks can be extended, but this will be agreed upon with the client and befriender when appropriate.
If you would like to make a referral and find out more about our services please get in touch with us on 02070012266 or email sabiha.chowdhury@apasen.org.uk (Tuesday to Friday between 9.30am and 5.30pm).