Fife Adult Befriending
Lead Scotland’s Fife Adult Befriending service supports adults aged 16 and over, including older people, who feel lonely, isolated or disconnected. This may be because of disability, ill health, a change in circumstances or other barriers.
Our volunteer befrienders provide regular, friendly, one-to-one support to help people build confidence, enjoy social contact and become more connected with their local community.
How befriending can help
A volunteer befriender can provide companionship and encouragement through activities such as:
- Meeting for a coffee or a short walk
- Having a regular conversation
- Trying a new activity together
- Finding out about local groups and opportunities
- Building confidence to become more involved in the community
Befriending usually takes place for around two hours each week or fortnight. Each match normally lasts between four and six months, depending on the needs of the person receiving support.
Befrienders provide social support. They do not provide personal care, domestic help, counselling or professional advice.
Who can use the service?
The service is for adults aged 16 and over who:
- Live in Fife
- Feel lonely, isolated or disconnected
- Would benefit from regular one-to-one social support
- Would like help to build their confidence or community connections
Make a referral
You can refer yourself, a family member or someone you are supporting professionally.
Current referral availability
Because of high demand, we are not currently accepting new referrals for people living in Kirkcaldy or Glenrothes. We continue to accept referrals from elsewhere in Fife.
Complete the Fife Adult Befriending referral form
If you would prefer to speak to someone before making a referral, contact Kirstyn, our Fife Adult Befriending Coordinator:
Telephone: 07775 844885
Email: fifeadultbefriending@lead.org.uk
“Thanks to Lead I feel like I’m getting back to being the old me. I feel my independence coming back and that makes such a difference to my life.”
If you or someone you know is experiencing loneliness or isolation in Fife, you can also visit The Well from Fife Health and Social Care Partnership for information about other local services and support.
Volunteer as a befriender
We are looking for friendly and reliable volunteers aged 18 and over who can spend around two hours each week or fortnight supporting someone in Fife.
You do not need to be an expert. Being a good listener, showing patience and having a genuine interest in other people are what matter most.
Being a befriender could involve going for a short walk, meeting for tea or coffee, finding a local activity or simply spending time having a conversation in someone’s home.
Volunteering as a befriender is an opportunity to:
- Make a meaningful difference in someone’s life
- Meet new people
- Support someone to build their confidence
- Strengthen connections within your community
- Develop your own skills and experience
Find out more about volunteering with Lead Scotland
You can also email fifeadultbefriending@lead.org.uk for more information and a volunteer starter pack.
“Supporting people to get out and about makes me feel good too. I get so much out of it. I would recommend doing something like this to everyone.”
Contact us
Fife Adult Befriending Coordinator: Kirstyn
Telephone: 07775 844885
Email: fifeadultbefriending@lead.org.uk
For general Lead Scotland enquiries, telephone 0131 228 9441 or email enquiries@lead.org.uk.
Funding and membership
Lead Scotland’s Fife Adult Befriending service gratefully receives funding from Fife Council. Lead Scotland is also a member of Befriending Networks.
