Cotswold Friends' volunteer-led community services bring friendship and practical support to over 2000 older, isolated, vulnerable people throughout the North Cotswolds. We aim to reduce loneliness and isolation, improve health and well-being and support independent living for those who are older and alone.
Our 7 sustainable services are preventative and part of our 'Ageing Well' Programme to keep people fit, active, connected, and cared for by their community. In normal times:
Community Transport: our volunteer drivers enable clients to get out and about for practical, medical and social needs. They support 1378 isolated people. Highly cost effective, this service is a lifeline and interconnects with Cotswold Friends' other services.
Community Activities: with 66 volunteers, we run 14 Lunch Clubs, a 'Knit and Natter' group, 4 'Men in Sheds' projects, Community Singing, Gentle Walking, Walking Football group: around 58 sessions take place each month. Regular social contact and exercise assists well-being, keeps people fit and active.
Befriending: our volunteers make weekly friendship/support visits to clients and also befriend by Telephone. This simple friendship alleviates loneliness, isolation, helps individuals live in their own homes for longer. They can join in regular community events, with transport and support if needed.
Intergenerational Project: involves local Sixth form students who visit nearby care home residents, help at our clubs and activities, and in the office for mailings, newsletter, leaflet distribution, and community fundraising.
Carer Support Service: trained volunteers give regular respite breaks for carers and befriend the cared-for person. Together they can join in events and activities with transport and personal care, The programme also runs fortnightly Day Clubs, provides peer support, training and advice to carers.
Independence Service: support older people to regain confidence and ability at home after isolation, illness, or hospital stay .
Hospital Service: combining Transport, Befriending, Carer Support, our scheme supports people admitted to hospital - going in, during and coming home from, their hospital stay.
If you are interested in volunteering, or know someone who might need Cotswold Friends, please contact us.
View our film at
Cotswold Friends Charity Film | Cotswold Friends | Supporting older and vulnerable people in the North Cotswolds
