Original article published on:
https://www.straphaels.org.uk/pages/faqs/category/compassionateneighbours
Compassionate Neighbours can really make a positive difference in people’s lives.
It is an award-winning social movement to help reduce loneliness and isolation for the people of Merton and Sutton, who are approaching the end of their life, due to age or illness, and who are socially isolated or their carers.
Compassionate Neighbours provide support while helping people continue to feel a part of their community. The initiative unlocks people’s compassion and helps to build supportive connections and genuine friendships within our local community. It is made up of a network of skilfully trained volunteers who are proficiently matched with a member of the community based on their interests, hobbies and experiences. Compassionate Neighbours offer their time and companionship and provide emotional and social support, while developing natural and mutual friendships.
People in Merton and Sutton can be matched with a Compassionate Neighbour on a one-to-one basis or through attending one of our local social gatherings where you can meet other people from your local community.
Compassionate Neighbours can help others by:
- Offering friendship and a listening ear
- Visiting regularly for a cup of tea and a chat
- Telephone support
- Supporting you to stay connected to your community and loved ones
- Supporting you with the things that you enjoy doing
Read about Jan’s experience as a Compassionate Neighbour who holds the record for the longest-standing support to a patient.
This initiative can also provide support for carers of those affected by illness and those who are bereaved. The fear and isolation that people feel surrounding death and dying can greatly be reduced when part of a strong social network.
All support is provided free of charge.
How to be part of our Compassionate Neighbours initiative
32,000 people in Merton and Sutton are often or always lonely and could do with extra support for an hour or two (based on 2021 data from the Office Statistics Regulation).
Since the launch of the campaign in January 2023, we have received many referrals from our community and are currently looking for volunteers to help everyone in need. Please apply below and help alleviate loneliness in Merton and Sutton by becoming a Compassionate Neighbour.
We are still recruiting Compassionate Neighbour volunteers
Information Sessions
We would like to invite you to pop along for one of our information mornings. They are open to all members of the public from patients, carers, potential volunteers and medical professionals who would like to know more about our Compassionate Neighbours service.
They usually take place in our Wellbeing Centre towards the of each month but they are also held out in the community where you can come meet us for a chat. Please keep your eyes peeled here and on social media for details of where our next information session will be.
The sessions will run from 10am – 12pm and are free to attend. All we ask is that you RSVP by emailing us via compassionateneighbours@straphaels.org.uk.