Elder Tree Befriending

As a charity we exist to support older people to continue to live independently in their own homes and we make a significant contribution to community cohesion and development. We are actively involved with many Statutory and Voluntary Sector organisations and we offer a weekly program of social inclusion and light impact exercise in 50 separate locations across the city. We are innovative and creative in introducing exciting new initiatives and activities.

The Five elements that make up Elder Tree Befriending

One to One Support

Our  'One to One' Befriending service supports frail and socially isolated older people who are housebound in their home with a Volunteer Befriender. We currently support over 90 individuals in this capacity.  There are other criteria that must be met for 'One to One' befriending, which will be checked by our referral team during their assessment visit. 

Social Inclusion Groups

We promote and support our beneficiaries to continue to live independently and make and sustain friendships through activity groups.  Stimulating the minds of our beneficiaries and facilitating companionship is key. We do this through games, quizzes, crafts, choirs, coffee groups, IT sessions and lunch/supper clubs. 

Active Lives

Active Lives is a preventative programme of physical activity which incorporates falls prevention that is delivered in various locations across the city. This includes: seated and standing exercise and movement classes, seated and mat based Pilates. Tai Chi sessions and a GP/Physiotherapist referred Strength & Balance programme. All sessions include time when our Project Workers can provide advice, information and signposting across a wide range of issues.

Active Men

The Active Men programme focuses on supporting and engaging with men who have limited access to social opportunities. This includes: Walking groups, Walking Football, bowling, curling, games, quizzes and activity groups. All sessions include time when our Project Workers can provide advice, information and signposting across a wide range of issues.

Volunteering

We are supported by 170 amazing volunteers and they are the beating heart and soul of our charity. They are leaders and decision makers and drive our development and direction of travel.

All our volunteers take part in a comprehensive 'in house' training and support process and all have up to date DBS clearance.

Volunteering is a two way street. You will make a real difference to someone who is likely to be lonely, isolated and desperately in need of company. You will in return get the immense satisfaction of making a real difference whilst making a telling contribution to your local community and the only cost to you will be a couple of hours of your time a week. For a vulnerable older person, you will provide a positive impact, bring a smile to their face and will likely be the highlight of their week.

For yourself - you will gain experience in community work, develop your social and team skills and you will be rewarded with the satisfaction that you are making a real difference.

Breathing Space groups

We offer a programme of weekly "Breathing Space" groups for carers and their loved ones living with dementia. Two separate spaces are available within the same venue, one for carers to have a few hours respite with peer and volunteer support, and a second one for their loved ones with an Elder Tree project worker. 

• Monday afternoon
  Emmanuel Church, Mannamead
• Tuesday afternoon
  The Elder Tree Centre, Cattedown
  High St Budeaux Church Hall
• Wednesday afternoon
  Morice Baptist Church Hall, North Prospect
• Thursday afternoon
  Tothill Community Centre
• Friday afternoon
  Tothill Community Centre

Make a referral to Elder Tree

• Make a self referral for yourself 
• Make a referral for a family or friend

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