The Befriending Service aims to reduce the amount of loneliness in their area, by organising a regular visit or phone call to lonely people. Due to a lack of money, transport and supportive neighbours, many people are housebound and suffer extreme loneliness and depression. A regular visit or phone call from a 'friend' makes all the difference, giving the week a focus and bringing something of the outside world in.

The group has also introduced activities for those who are able to leave their homes, such as film, book and art clubs plus a walking group for people with limited mobility. These are proving invaluable in helping people to regain self confidence and enjoyment from socialising in an empathetic environment, thereby lifting depression and increasing independence.

Val Jenner, from the Befriending Service explains:
“We are thrilled to win the Kerrygold Award and also very touched by all the heart warming comments people left when they voted for our project. We truly feel that our project epitomises community spirit as our volunteers work together to ensure the elderly in Falmouth feel connected with the community itself.”

With the help of the Kerrygold Community Awards cash prize, the Befriending Service hope to extend their art group and fund further activities to build on a sense of community. They would like to start a history group and offer more social events for their members, as well as recruiting more volunteers and increasing the number of community visits.

Val goes on to explain, “Being the only visitors some people have, we are able to bring a little of the outside world into their lives, helping them feel less isolated and gradually helping them to re-engage with others.”