Befriending Service Update from our Chief Executive
We know that our Befriending service makes a real difference. People who use the service tell us that our volunteer Befrienders have helped them to manage their mental health and to overcome anxiety and isolation. We are proud of this service and the fantastic work the volunteers and Befriending team do.
Unfortunately, in March 2025, Buckinghamshire Council stopped funding this service. Since then, we have been working hard to raise the funds needed to keep going. Although we have had some success, we know that we will not be able to continue running this service in the current format beyond the end of the year and so it will need to be closed to new referrals from 1st August 2025.
We understand how important this service is to so many people and that this will be difficult news to read.
In the meantime, we will continue to work hard to find new funding for this work to continue in 2026 and look at other ways that we can provide one-to-one support in the community to those who need it.
We will keep you up-to-date with progress. If you have any questions, please get in touch at [email protected] or call 01494 463364.
Joel Rose, Chief Executive, Buckinghamshire Mind
Our Befriending service offers short term support to adults in Buckinghamshire who are lonely or isolated as a result of mental illness.
Who is this suitable for?
Anyone over the age of 18 who is experiencing mental health difficulties (excluding dementia) may be able to use our service.
What can I expect?
Our Befriending Coordinators recruit and train volunteers who then form ‘partnerships’ with people from the local community. These can be for up to 6 months and can focus on a specific activity or on learning a particular skill or be purely for regular social contact.
Fees
There is no charge as the service is funded by Buckinghamshire Council. Capacity is limited, so there may be a wait to receive support.
How can I access this service?
You can be referred to this service by your GP, the Adult Mental Health Team or other agency.
“I can’t put into words how grateful I am to have a Befriender. Befriending is incredibly helpful and I am so thankful I have this support. When I started, I didn’t believe what a difference it would make to my life.”
Leaflets
Leaflet for people we support: view online
Leaflet for volunteers and referrers: view online
Find out more about volunteering as a Befriender
Find out about how Befriending transforms lives
If you feel you require any support to access this service, for example hearing loop, translator or mobility aids, please call 01494 463364 or email [email protected] and we will get back to you to discuss your individual needs.