VOLUNTEERS are needed for a new befriending service for older people - with one of the launch events taking place in Wotton-under-Edge. 
Older people living in isolation in Gloucestershire will soon benefit from a new service being introduced by Gloucestershire Rural Community Council. 
The scheme, funded by the county's Clinical Commissioning Group, will be an extension of GRCC’s existing and highly successful ‘Friends for You’ befriending service currently running in the Cotswolds.
‘Friends for You’ offers regular companionship at a time when a person might be feeling lonely and isolated, often as a result of a change in circumstance, such as illness, bereavement, relocation or loss of confidence. 
 A reliable, local volunteer visitor calling regularly each week, offering friendship and a listening ear has a positive impact on a person’s state of mind and well-being, as well as enhancing their sense of belonging and feeling a valued part of their community. The friendships that develop enrich the lives of both people. 
Events to launch the scheme are being held on the following dates, at venues across the county:

Monday, 23rd February 2015
10am - 11.30am     Bradley Room, Civic Centre, Wotton-under-Edge
12 noon - 1.30pm     King’s Stanley Village Hall, Stroud
2.30pm - 4pm -    Longlevens Community Association Hall, Church Road, Longlevens, Gloucester

Wednesday, 25th February
10am - 11.30am     United Reform Church, Salisbury Avenue, Warden Hill, Cheltenham
12 noon - 1.30pm     Abbeyfields Community Centre, Winchcombe
2.30pm - 4pm         Gambier Parry Hall, Newent Road, Highnam

‘Friends For You’ is keen to recruit volunteers. If you have a few spare hours and would like to make a difference to an older person call Sue Black, ‘Friends For You’ on 07810 630167 or 01452 528491 or email sue.friendsforyou@grcc.org.uk.  
Full training and support is provided, together with an opportunity to meet fellow volunteers and forge new friendships.