
Ecas operates a Befriending Service for physically disabled adults living in Edinburgh, providing friendship and companionship for socially isolated people.
Volunteer Befriending with Ecas is a rewarding and valuable way to make a meaningful difference within your community. So much so, that Befrienders who may have to stop due to other commitments often return to us when the time is right.
Aoibheann (pictured here with Lynn) is a great example of a volunteer returning to befriending. We asked her to share her Befriending story.
When did you first get involved as a volunteer with Ecas, and why?
I first got involved with Ecas 7 years ago when I was starting my nursing course. I have always wanted to support people in my life, so it was a good fit. At the time, I felt that I needed to get a better understanding of how to support people, particularly looking ahead to future training and work opportunities.
My reasons are completely different this time around! My purpose is different, having gained more experience in the meantime.
What was your experience like, and why did you have to stop?
I was visiting a woman who was housebound and lived in supported accommodation. She was lovely and we got on well, though we were limited in what we could do at times. In retrospect, I would have liked the chance to perhaps get out from time to time and build a better connection.
After visiting for more than a year, my nursing course meant that I no longer had the time to commit. It coincided with an admission to hospital for my Befriendee, so it was an appropriate time to stop.
Why did you return?
During and after the pandemic, there was a massive rise in social isolation. In my professional role within an NHS Thrive Welcome Team I would try to refer to services that could help people, but everything seemed to be full. Then I saw a video from Ecas and thought, ‘well I have time on a Monday, so I could volunteer.’
You’d think I would need a day off because my work can be heavy at times, but I felt I needed something to do that wasn’t sitting around the house! It was a really good fit to come back.
Why Ecas?
I’ve had a really positive experience with Ecas, right from when I first met the befriending staff.
There’s a very mindful selection process to make sure people will be right for the volunteer role, and there’s a careful, step-by-step selection, training and matching process that felt appropriately rigorous.
I never felt like I would be matched with a Befriendee just for the sake of making a match – we would need to have something in common and for it to be logistically convenient.
I also wanted to connect with a client group that is different to my current work. Loneliness and social isolation are important to tackle, as everyone can experience what that is like. For those with a physical disability, it can have a much larger impact.
Would you recommend volunteer befriending to others, and why?
Definitely, I have been spreading the word!
There’s a comfort in knowing that Ecas supports both the client and the volunteer and are there if you need them, with a personal touch.
What do you enjoy about it and what’s it been like to get into the swing of it again?
It has been lovely; we have a really good laugh together and share our interests.
We talk freely about topics that I might not get to cover with other people, and we share our thoughts together. We go out of the house every week for a good walk and a coffee, and a scone!
My focus has shifted away from gaining experience now, and I feel like I’ve made a good friend – it’s all about mutual enjoyment.
Want to give befriending a go?
Live in Edinburgh and interested in being a Ecas Befriender?
Ecas is looking for volunteer befrienders who we can match with people based on shared interests. Ecas provides full training and ongoing support. We also cover travel and other costs, so you’re not out of pocket!
If you have a couple of free hours per week, you can get to know someone in your community who could do with some extra company.
Get in touch with Ecas today to find out more!
Speak with Sam on 07825 305 376
Email sam@ecas.scot
Visit Becoming a Befriender for more information.