Home Befriender

Become a Lifeline of Friendship for a Visually Impaired Person in Northamptonshire Across Northamptonshire, 23,000 people are living with sight loss — and many of them are facing something far more isolating than their visual impairment: loneliness. We’re looking for kind, friendly and empathetic volunteers who can offer companionship to local visually impaired (VI) people who would love a friendly face in their week. What does a Home Befriender do? It’s beautifully simple — and incredibly meaningful. Your visits might include: • Sharing a cuppa and a good chat • Going for a gentle walk • A trip to the garden centre • Or simply being someone who listens Every befriending relationship is unique, and we always match volunteers with someone local and compatible. Training & Support To help you feel confident and prepared, all volunteers are invited to our Sight Awareness and Guide Training. You’ll learn: • What everyday life is like for someone with sight loss • How to guide a VI person safely and comfortably • What services, aids and gadgets NAB offers that could support them Why volunteer? Becoming a Home Befriender is incredibly rewarding — not just for the person you support, but for you too. Research shows that 77% of volunteers experience a boost in their own mental health and wellbeing. It’s a chance to make a genuine difference, build a meaningful connection, and brighten someone’s world.

Skills

We’d love to hear from you! If you’re warm-hearted, reliable and ready to make a positive impact, get in touch. There’s someone nearby who would truly value your friendship. To keep everyone safe and supported, we ask for two character references and a DBS check. You’ll also have ongoing guidance from your local Volunteer Coordinator, so you’ll never feel you’re doing this alone.

Details

  • Accessibility
  • Age restrictions
    Over 18's
  • DBS check required
  • Equal Opportunities Policy
  • Expenses reimbursed
  • Health and Safety Policy
  • Ongoing support
  • Training provided
  • Volunteer induction
  • Volunteer Policy
  • Volunteers covered by insurance
  • Written role description

When can I volunteer?

Start Date: 10/02/2026

End Date: 31/12/2026

Mon Tue Wed Thu Fri Sat Sun
Morning Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes
Afternoon Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes
Evening Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes

Availability Details

Time commitment: once a fortnight at a mutually convenient time for both you and your visually impaired match.


Location

This opportunity is available Countywide.


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Community Action Northants is an alliance of Volunteer Centres in Northamptonshire

  • CAN
  • Aspire NN
  • SNVB
  • Volunteer Centre Daventry
  • Voluntary Impact Northamptonshire