Highly Commended - Monifieth Befrienders
Monifieth Befrienders has been highly commended by Age Scotland at their national awards in recognition of its outstanding contribution to reducing loneliness and helping older people build meaningful connections within their community.
The Angus charity supports older people through one-to-one befriending, social groups, events and community activities, creating opportunities for friendship, companionship and inclusion.
Over the past year, Monifieth Befrienders has supported more than 50 older people through befriending and delivered activities attended thousands of times by local residents. Supported by a dedicated team of volunteers, they help people who may be experiencing bereavement, retirement, illness or loneliness to reconnect with others and regain confidence.
Regular activities including lunch clubs, knitting groups, seated yoga sessions, film afternoons and intergenerational projects provide older people with a welcoming place to go, people to talk to and opportunities to form lasting friendships.
Katherine Crawford, Chief Executive of Age Scotland, said:
"Monifieth Befrienders demonstrates the life-changing difference that friendship and human connection can make. Through their dedicated volunteers, welcoming activities and one-to-one support, they are helping older people rebuild confidence, form meaningful relationships and feel part of their community. Their work is a wonderful example of how kindness, compassion and local action can tackle loneliness and improve lives."
Lindsey Le Grice, Service Manager at Monifieth Befrienders said:
“This recognition means a great deal to Monifieth Befrienders, our volunteers, and the people we support. It acknowledges the hard work, dedication, and compassion that go into creating opportunities for people to connect, build friendships, and reduce social isolation within our community.
“Through our befriending service, groups, and activities, we see firsthand the positive impact that meaningful social connections can have on people's mental, physical and social wellbeing, confidence, and quality of life. Being recognised in this way helps shine a light on the importance of community support and the difference that volunteers and local organisations can make in helping people feel valued, included, and connected.”