2022 Shortlisted Nominee
Community Organisation Award: Age
Aberdeen Linking Lives is a befriending service generally aimed at the elderly who find themselves requiring some extra friendship and support. The service matches volunteers with other people who would like to see a friendly volunteer visitor on a regular basis for around one hour or receive phone calls for 30 minutes weekly. Volunteers receive full training, support and advice for their role. They also provide references and receive the necessary criminal record checks (PVG) prior to beginning visits. Many people find themselves alone after their partner passes away or are isolated due to illness or disability. For one reason or another, they do not get out or see as many people as often as they would like. This is where Aberdeen Linking Lives comes in. This vital organisation finds a compatible volunteer based on interests, geography, and personality.