Befriended - winner of the BBC Make a difference award

To every person who has been part of Befriended - thank you.

It is recognition of a community of people who believe that no one should face loneliness, isolation, grief or the challenges of later life alone.

Since Befriended began, thousands of older people across Sussex have found friendship, support, purpose and somewhere to belong.

Every week, our amazing volunteers visit people in their homes, welcome people to tea parties, choirs, Balance classes, Café Neuro, bereavement support and other activities. They listen, laugh, care, make endless cups of tea and, most importantly, give their time and friendship.

But above all, it belongs to every older person who has had the courage to walk through the door for the first time, join a group, come on a holiday or simply say: “I’m lonely and I need someone.”

In 2027, Befriended celebrates its 10th anniversary.

Our vision is bigger than ever: we want to reach more people who are lonely and isolated, and create more places where people can be known, welcomed, valued, loved and belong.

This award belongs to everyone who is a part of Befriended

Befriended in partnership with local churches and organisations, is on a mission to bring an end to loneliness and isolation among older people living in Sussex.