Benefits of the scheme

Befriending looks at life needs not just mental distress.

• On occasion, befriending is able to offer an out of hours service.
• The service user takes on an active part in the decision making about where, when and how contact takes place.
• The emphasis of the scheme is on building self confidence and self esteem and is led by the needs of the service user.
• Befrienders offer a wealth of different experiences and come from a range of different backgrounds and age groups.
• Befrienders do not get paid. The voluntary commitment shown is generally appreciated by service users and helps to build relationships which nurture self confidence.
• Mind Befriending Sir Gâr complements the work undertaken by the statutory sector.
• Befriending can assist people to develop interests, access community based facilities and enhance the quality of their lives, in the company of their befriender.
• Befrienders are effectively trained to respect boundaries and adhere to professional standards of confidentiality; however, there is also an emphasis on offering genuineness, empathy and warmth.
• The befriending scheme can help to reduce the stigma that some people may feel.
• The scheme promotes awareness of mental health needs; mental ill health is something which can affect any one of us, so the more we raise awareness, the more we can break down barriers and promote positive mental wellbeing.