Thank you for visiting my JustGiving page. I am excited to share that I am participating in a skydive and completing the Derbyshire 3 Peaks challenge to raise funds for b:friend, a remarkable charity dedicated to combating loneliness among older neighbours in our community.

b:friend pairs volunteer befrienders with socially isolated older individuals, aiming to reduce loneliness and re-engage them with their community. Each volunteer commits to visiting once a week for a ‘cuppa and a chat’, demonstrating that someone truly cares. Additionally, we host weekly two-hour social clubs across South Yorkshire, Nottinghamshire, and Derbyshire, where older neighbours can connect with others and engage in activities based on the Five Ways to Well-being.

These activities include creative writing and artistic pursuits that inspire creativity, dancing and exercise for physical improvement, puzzles and quizzes for mental stimulation, as well as talks from local organizations like museums. All of these initiatives benefit both volunteers and older neighbours alike, providing them with free opportunities to connect.

Currently, we support around 1,000 older neighbours who may go weeks without speaking to anyone. No one should feel alone; b:friend exists to change this reality. Over 50% of our one-on-one friendships last over a year—at which point we no longer refer to them as befriender/older neighbour but simply friends.

Moreover, our older neighbours have the chance to become integral parts of their local communities through events like b:heard in theatres where they share fascinating stories about their lives, and b:seen where we showcase their artwork in community spaces.

I am aiming to raise £1,000 through this campaign. Your generous donations will directly support these vital programs that bring joy and connection into the lives of those who need it most. Donating through JustGiving is simple, fast, and secure; your details are safe with them—they will never sell your information or send unwanted emails. Once you donate, your money goes directly to the charity—making it the most efficient way to contribute while saving time and cutting costs for b:friend.

Please consider supporting my efforts by donating today. Together, we can make a difference in the lives of those who feel isolated.