Befrienders are carefully selected[1] volunteers, from a variety of organisations and mental health charities, who are trained to provide support and companionship to lonely, or emotionally distressed, people.
[3] The meeting is usually arranged to suit the person's needs, either at home, or at a neutral venue.
Some befriending schemes include social events, creative classes, or self-help groups.
[2] Training can take upwards of 10 weeks before a befriender is allocated a case.
[5] Unlike professional careers, such as social workers, befrienders can become emotionally involved with their case, which often results in a more positive outcome as they are able to engage at a much deeper level.