Volunteer Befriender Role Description
The Widows Empowerment Trust

Role Overview
Volunteer befrienders provide emotional, social, and practical companionship to bereaved spouses and widows who may be experiencing loneliness, isolation, or a lack of community support. This role involves regular home visits and telephone befriending, offering a compassionate presence, active listening, and encouragement.

Role and Responsibility

•  Provide friendly, regular companionship through scheduled home visits or telephone calls
• Offer a supportive, non-judgmental, and empathetic listening ear to bereaved individuals
• Help reduce loneliness, build confidence, and encourage engagement in community activities where appropriate
• Maintain healthy and professional boundaries at all times
• Record interactions appropriately while maintaining confidentiality
• Follow the charity’s safeguarding policies and procedures at all times
• Communicate any safeguarding concerns immediately to the appropriate staff members
• Attend volunteer induction, training sessions, and occasional reflective practice meetings
• Represent The Widows Empowerment Trust with professionalism and cultural sensitivity

Skills and Qualities Required

• Warm, compassionate, and patient nature
• Excellent listening and communication skills
• Ability to build trust and supportive relationships
• Reliability and consistency in keeping appointments
• Respectful, non-judgemental attitude towards people from diverse backgrounds and cultures
• Ability to maintain confidentiality and follow safeguarding procedures
• Emotional maturity and the ability to remain calm when supporting individuals in distress
• Basic record-keeping skills
• Passion for supporting widows, bereaved spouses, and vulnerable adults
• Full UK driving licence and access to a car (desirable)

Commitment

• Minimum commitment: 2–3 hours per week (flexible)
• Long-term commitment is preferred to help build stable and trusting relationships

What We Offer

• Full induction and ongoing training
• Regular supervision and volunteer support
• Reimbursement of travel or mileage expenses
• A rewarding opportunity to make a meaningful difference in someone’s life

Contact Information
The Widows Empowerment Trust
Email: admin@widowsempowerment.com