Get Active Befriending – Time & Talents

T&T’s Get Active Befriending project connects people with local befrienders to provide companionship around a shared goal of getting active. For an hour or so each week, our befriending pairs try out a new sport or activity together, shaking off the cobwebs, having a go at something new and, most importantly, having fun!

For many, joining a group or getting back outside for the first time can be a daunting task. Not knowing what to do or where to go – or not having anyone to go with – can put any of us off. But that’s where our volunteers come in.

Within a befriending pair, the volunteer provides an hour of 1-to-1 support each week for 6 months. Befriender and befriendee take up a new activity together, providing mutual motivation, support and, above all, good company. The activity you choose is completely up to you and your Get Active partner: you could do anything from a walk in the park to a game of frisbee, to tennis, dance classes or yoga – there’s no right or wrong, so long as you get something out of it.

For some, the word ‘sports’ might bring back bitter memories of rainy PE lessons, but we’re determined to change this. Getting outside and active has so many benefits for our mental and physical health, which we think everyone should be able to enjoy. That’s why Get Active Befriending is open to all, no matter your ability or age.

If you’re interested in joining the programme or becoming a volunteer Get Active befriender, send an email to annegrimwade@timeandtalents.org.uk, or call us on 020 7231 7845. We’ll be in touch to have an introductory talk, and to learn more about you and your interests.

Join as a volunteer!

As a volunteer befriender, you’ll be matched with a befriendee based on your shared interests in sports, your goals, and your personalities. Within this buddy relationship, you’ll begin the adventure of taking up an activity or sport with your befriendee! Your role is to help calm any nerves, and to motivate each other throughout the relationship.

Most volunteers meet with their befriendee once a week, to take part in a physical activity or attend a team session together. The project is flexible: it can be adjusted to suit you in terms of times, dates, activity type and availability. One thing we ask is that volunteers commit to a minimum of 6 months, to allow befriending pairs to get to know one another and make some progress. If you’re interested, you can apply online via our application form – be sure to mention Get Active Befriending!

We’ll be in touch to have a chat and learn more about your interests and motivations, so that we can find a good match for you. Then we’ll invite you to a training session to ensure you’re well prepared to start volunteering.