Loneliness can affect anyone. It doesn’t always look the way we expect, and it doesn’t always go away on its own. Across Staffordshire, many people are living independently in their own homes but feeling disconnected, isolated, or unsure where to turn.
That’s where Revival’s Befriending Service comes in.
Our befriending service connects people who feel lonely or isolated with trained Befrienders who offer something simple, but powerful: time, conversation, and genuine human connection. Together, they work towards helping people feel more confident, more connected, and ultimately, less alone.
A personal, 12-week journey
Every customer who joins Revival’s befriending service takes part in a 12-week programme designed entirely around them. Using a supportive assessment tool, the customer and befriender explore what the customer is experiencing, what matters most to them, and what they want to get out of their time together.
From there, they work side by side to set small, meaningful goals and take practical steps towards achieving them. This might involve reconnecting with family, building new friendships, becoming more involved in the local community, or simply feeling more confident and independent day to day. There is no pressure and no judgement — just two people working together at a pace that feels right.
Life-changing for customers
For many customers, the impact of befriending is profound. Feeling truly heard and supported can be the first step towards real and lasting change, helping people feel more able to live independently in their own homes for the long term. This sits at the very heart of Revival’s mission.
“My journey has come full circle. After experiencing the difference that friendship and support made in my recovery, I've now expressed an interest in becoming a befriender myself, a wonderful way to give back and help others who may be going through similar struggles.”
Stories like this are common. Customers often grow in confidence, rediscover a sense of purpose, and feel more connected to the world around them. For some, the experience is so positive that they go on to become Befrienders themselves.
Extraordinary for Befrienders too
Befriending is not only life-changing for customers — it is deeply rewarding for those who volunteer their time. Befrienders come from all walks of life. Some are retired, some are working, and others are looking for a meaningful way to give back or develop new skills.
Many Befrienders say the experience gives them just as much as they give. It offers the chance to make a genuine difference in someone’s life, meet new people, gain fresh perspectives, and develop valuable listening and communication skills. Being a befriender also means being part of something purposeful, compassionate, and impactful.
“I’ve really enjoyed my time at Revival so far and have learned a lot. Volunteering is an amazing thing to do as it really helps people connect.”
We’re looking for more male Befrienders
We are always grateful to anyone who comes forward, but we are particularly keen to hear from more men who might be interested in becoming Befrienders. Many of the people we support benefit greatly from speaking to someone they can relate to, and shared experiences or perspectives can help build trust and confidence more quickly.
You don’t need any qualifications or previous experience to become a befriender. You don’t need to have all the answers. What matters most is having a listening ear, a bit of time to give, and a genuine passion to help someone feel less alone. Full training, guidance, and ongoing support are provided throughout the programme, so you’ll never be on your own.
Get in touch if you’d like to join the trusted team, call 0333 014 3389 or email hello@thisisrevival.org.uk
