Befriending at a distance

Authors: Gordon, Jean; Mason, Anne
Publisher: University of Stirling

Summary:
This research aimed to evaluate a new distance befriending service piloted by Befrienders Highland Limited, for people in the Scottish Highlands with mental health needs. The service used email, letter writing and telephone to offer befriending to people who are unable to access face to face befriending services because they live in rural and remote areas, or have difficulty leaving their homes or meeting people.  

Findings suggest that distance befriending can be a beneficial service for service users with mental health needs that would otherwise be unlikely to be able to access or desire face to face befriending services. Distance befriending also provides a new volunteering opportunity for people who find it difficult to leave their homes to volunteer.  Service users described themselves as feeling valued by BHL and felt safe. It would appear that the delivery of a safe distance befriending service within Highland is feasible, when aligned with carefully considered internal quality assurance processes. 

Link to document: Befriending at a distance final report (PDF)

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