AS we find ourselves at the heart of national volunteering week, (1st to 5th June) Monmouth charity, the Community Connections Befriending Scheme, is appealing for new volunteers to join its successful programme.

The befriending scheme has been running for three years, and in that time has helped countless elderly people across the county find companionship, help, and most importantly, friendship.

The scheme works by asking volunteers over the age of 16 to come forward, who may have just a few hours a week to spare, and matching them to members of the community over the age of 50 who are lacking companionship.

Organisers endeavour to match volunteers with those who have been referred by the health service, or social services, based on interests, time available and the help required.

Loneliness is becoming more and more of a recognised problem in the UK, with many of us simply not finding the time to pop around to check on our next-door neighbour, and the demise of many rural community networks isolating those most at need.

As a befriender with a busy job, I know how daunting it may seem to commit yourself to another person, especially one who it would appear will need a lot of caring for.

But the truth is that it really isn't as pressured as it may seem. You are not taking on sole care for another person; you are providing another support service along with the healthcare system, social services and the care providers.

Befrienders are there to do just that: befriend someone who is simply in need of a chat and a chance to laugh. Volunteers could take their beneficiary to do a little shopping, share a tea-break, a bite of lunch; whatever you have time for.

But it is a wonderful scheme and well worth getting involved in.

The person I visit is warm, witty, and really makes me laugh. I value the friendship that has grown from our meetings and the simple fact is that our chats and trips out make me happy. I see improvements as the time goes by, and naturally, that's very rewarding.

The scheme runs from Bridges Community Centre in Monmouth, and the Parma Centre, Chepstow. It also covers Usk, Raglan, and villages across the county.

Involvement begins with an initial meeting, followed by a Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check, (formally CRB) and a short training session.

The team at Community Connections is very supportive at all stages of volunteering, and are always on hand to answer your questions.

Call 01600 710895 in Monmouth, 01291 630524 in Chepstow, or email [email protected]">[email protected] for more information or to discuss becoming a volunteer.