• 05/05/2026

Supporting everyone to stay connected

Lorraine Wingrove Revival Befriender

At Revival, we’re always looking for ways to make sure our services are accessible, inclusive and able to support people with a wide range of needs. Our befriending service is built on connection, trust and understanding, and that means making sure our volunteers feel confident supporting every individual they meet. We’re proud to share a recent example of this in action.

Going the extra mile to support others
One of our dedicated befrienders, Lorraine, recently attended a specialist learning session focused on supporting people with visual impairment. The session was delivered through Befriending Networks and brought together services from across the country to share ideas, resources and practical approaches.

This training came at exactly the right time, as Lorraine had recently been matched with someone experiencing significant sight loss. Wanting to provide the very best support, she took the initiative to build her knowledge and confidence.

Learning new ways to support independence
The session explored a range of practical ways to support people living with visual impairment, including how to guide someone safely when out and about, and how to make everyday activities more accessible.

There was also discussion around useful organisations and resources, such as services that provide support for people with sight loss, opportunities for accessible activities in the community, and the role of technology in helping people stay independent.

Importantly, the session highlighted how small adjustments and greater understanding can make a big difference to someone’s confidence and ability to stay connected with the world around them.

Making our service more accessible
Lorraine’s commitment reflects something we value deeply at Revival: making sure our services work for everyone. By building knowledge and sharing learning across our team, we continue to improve how we support people with different needs, including those living with sensory loss.

This not only benefits the individual being supported, but also strengthens the overall quality and inclusivity of our befriending service.

The heart of befriending
Befriending is about more than regular contact. It’s about listening, understanding and creating meaningful connections that help people feel valued and less alone.

Lorraine’s dedication is a great example of how our volunteers go above and beyond to make sure the people they support feel comfortable, understood and included.

Could our befriending service support you or someone you know?
If you or someone you know is feeling isolated, or would benefit from friendly, one-to-one support, Revival’s befriending service is here to help. We work hard to ensure our support is accessible, inclusive and tailored to each individual, helping people stay connected, confident and independent in their own homes.

If you’d like to find out more, we’re always here for a conversation.