Our befrienders help clients develop their hobbies, attend social events, go shopping, undertake some daily tasks, and more.
Befriending Services at CDA
Our Befriending Service is designed to support Deaf individuals who may feel isolated or disconnected from their community. At CDA, we understand that meaningful connections are an essential part of living a full and happy life. Our trained befrienders, many of whom are fluent in British Sign Language (BSL), offer companionship, support, and a friendly face to brighten your day.
What is Befriending?
Befriending is more than just a friendly chat; it’s about building long-term relationships based on trust, shared interests, and genuine care. Our befrienders provide regular social interaction and can accompany you to appointments, community events, or simply spend time with you to ensure you feel connected and supported. Whether it’s meeting for a cup of tea, going for a walk, or participating in social activities, our service aims to reduce isolation and enhance emotional well-being.
What We’ve Achieved
At CDA, we are proud of the progress our Befriending Service has made:
Continuous Growth: We have successfully recruited 13 volunteers since January 2025, with more taking part in a free BSL course, expanding the service’s ability to support even more Deaf clients.
Extensive Volunteer Network: We have 38 dedicated volunteers who support vulnerable clients within the Deaf community through home visits, video calls, and participation in social events.
Growing Participation: Between June 2023 and June 2024, our volunteers delivered over 2,200 hours of support to 57 Deaf individuals. Throughout the year, there were 4,684 attendances at events, ranging from bowling and zoo trips to coffee mornings and craft sessions.
Why Choose CDA Befriending?
Choosing CDA’s Befriending Service means connecting with a team that truly understands the Deaf community and culture. Our befrienders are not only skilled in BSL but also deeply committed to supporting Deaf individuals in meaningful and practical ways.
We use cutting-edge systems to manage volunteer hours and event planning, ensuring that every interaction is well-organised and impactful. Clients also have access to our broader network of services, including advocacy, community events, and hearing aid support, making CDA a comprehensive support system for the Deaf community.
Flexible and Personalised Support
Our Befriending Service is tailored to suit your individual needs. Whether you’re looking for just a few hours of companionship a week or more regular visits, we’re here to provide the level of support that’s right for you. Our volunteers can assist with social activities, offer emotional support, and help you stay engaged in the community.
Case Study: Client A’s Journey from Isolation to Connection
Background:
Client A was a very sociable individual but found it difficult to leave the house, relying heavily on video calls to stay in touch with friends. This left her feeling increasingly isolated.
Challenges:
Client A struggled with:
- A lack of confidence in social situations.
- Hesitation to leave her home, resulting in a limited social life.
- Over-reliance on remote communication, restricting her opportunities for in-person engagement.
Intervention:
Recognising her challenges, CDA introduced Client A to a network of local Deaf individuals and encouraged her to attend Befriending events like bowling and board games. A volunteer provided transportation and helped her feel more comfortable navigating social situations.
Outcome:
Over time, Client A became a regular participant in social activities and built a new circle of friends within the community. She now actively organises her own social outings and attends events with her newfound friends, illustrating how personalised support can transform lives.
Upcoming Befriending events
Get in Touch
If you or someone you know could benefit from our Befriending Service, don’t hesitate to get in touch by filling out the form. Our friendly team is here to help you connect with others, access support, and enjoy life to the fullest.