A BRAND new befriending scheme for older people has launched across West Wales – and is looking for volunteers.

The three county initiative Befriending Life Links – funded by the Welsh Assembly – aims to support people over the age of 50 who have become socially isolated, have lost their confidence or just have a low sense of well being.

The six-strong Befriending Life Links team are based in various locations around Carmarthenshire, Pembrokeshire and Ceredigion.

The project is now actively recruiting volunteers and hopes that with the surge of interest in volunteering during the Covid 19 lockdown, people will carry on helping the community.

Project manager Jeremy Hewitt said: “Launching Befriending Life Links in lockdown has not been easy but we think that there are many older people who are now in more need of befriending services than ever before.”

For the initial post lockdown period the service will concentrate on telephone befriending – and the team have already been alerted to hundreds of potential clients.

“Some people might become isolated due to health issues, a stay in hospital, bereavement

or for other reasons. Whatever someone's situation we will try our best to support them.

With our team of dedicated staff and volunteers we will work with individuals to provide a

tailored service and support specific to the individuals needs.Volunteers are essential to enable us to deliver this much needed service and we would appeal for anyone interested to get in touch with their county co-ordinators,” added Jeremy.

As lockdown eases the Befriending Life Links service will involve matching volunteers with clients and offer home visits plus support to attend events and involvement with the community.

If you are interested in volunteering contact Carmarthenshire's co-ordinator - Jo-Anne.Zapettis@agecymrudyfed.org.uk