Age UK Oxfordshire has launched a recruitment drive for volunteers to join a pilot befriending scheme aimed at adults aged 50 and above across the county. The initiative, part of the charity's Enabling Connections project, is designed to help older residents rebuild confidence, take part in community activities and meet personal goals over a six-month period.
Flexible, time-limited support
Organisers say the role is intentionally different from traditional long-term befriending: it is a short-term, structured commitment that seeks to be achievable for people who want to volunteer but are wary of open-ended roles. Volunteers are asked to give two to three hours per week during weekday office hours for a total of 24 weeks.
"This role is different. It's a flexible, fixed-term opportunity that fits around people's lives while still making a significant difference," said Leigh Hogan, volunteer manager at Age UK Oxfordshire.
The emphasis of the scheme is practical: volunteers support someone to set and reach specific objectives. Examples given by the charity include attending local groups, travelling independently, restarting hobbies, improving digital confidence and generally becoming more active within the community. The broader aim is to tackle loneliness and improve wellbeing among older adults.
Who can apply and what training is provided
Age UK Oxfordshire says no prior experience is required. Volunteers will receive full training and ongoing support from the charity. The organisation is looking for empathetic, reliable people who are committed to helping others and who can make a weekly weekday commitment for the 24-week period.
- Time commitment: 2–3 hours per week
- Duration: 24 weeks (six months)
- Target group: people aged 50 and over
- Support provided: full training and ongoing support
How to find out more
People interested in volunteering or seeking further information can visit Age UK Oxfordshire's website or contact the charity directly. The charity has provided these contact routes:
| Method | Details |
|---|---|
| Website | ageuk.org.uk/oxfordshire/get-involved/volunteer |
| Phone | 0345 450 1276 |
| volunteering@ageukoxfordshire.org.uk |
The scheme may be of particular interest to those who want to make a measurable difference without committing to an indefinite volunteering role. For older residents, it provides a time-limited route to greater social engagement and practical support to achieve everyday goals.
Age UK Oxfordshire runs a range of services across the county; this programme is part of its broader work to reduce isolation and support wellbeing among older people.
