Cotswold Friends Independent Living

The local economy

The service has helped older people manage their own shopping either in person at a local store, or using IT for online orders. As clients have become more confident using our community transport service, and with the help of befrienders, they have been able to get out and about to a lunch club at a pub, a social activity, garden centre or other day out, this all supports local businesses.

Volunteering, jobs & education

Our charity currently has around 300 local volunteers who deliver our community services - including Independence, Transport, Befriending and Community Activities. Volunteers give their time to help others and they receive training and support from Cotswold Friends. In addition to an induction training day, ten specialised courses have been held in the last year, covering Warm and Well, Adult First Aid, Defibrillator use, Stress Awareness, Dementia. We have also held four social events this summer, for volunteers and clients to get together - the first time since the pandemic we've been able to meet up and celebrate!

Activity, health and leisure

Activity, health and leisure are all important aims of this service, alongside independence. Our clients who had lost ability and confidence in lockdowns have been able to regain strength in both mind and body by gradually becoming more active in their daily lives: taking a gentle walk, going to the shops, going outside the home to meet friends or take part in a social activity, exercise or shared interest/hobby group. This is an important step for each individual and enables them to enjoy life more, socialise and improve their mental health too.