The Licensed Trade Charity calls for volunteers for befriender scheme

The programme aims to reduce loneliness by offering retired, elderly people from pubs and breweries a weekly call from a volunteer and the campaign is being targeted at pub companies nationwide.

LTC volunteer manager Hilary Bone said: “If you are good at listening and like making people smile then it is really quite a simple and rewarding way of volunteering.

A massive difference in people’s lives

She added: “Our volunteers make a massive difference in people’s lives this way.”

The scheme began in 2014 after research found about 4,500 retired people from pubs and breweries were socially isolated. The scheme has helped 50 people so far.

Volunteers have to give 30 minutes a week for a minimum of six months and should contact ibyhagrre@fhccbegnaqpner.bet​ to register their interest. Full training will be provided.

Combatting isolation and loneliness

Last week (Friday 2 December), the Campaign for Real Ale (CAMRA), said pubs were crucial in the battle against loneliness in the UK​ following the publication of the results of a survey by the Campaign to End Loneliness.

CAMRA national chairman Colin Valentine said: “Simply put, a local pub can be like family. Despite this, 21 pubs are closing their doors each week across the UK.

“If we want to help combat isolation and loneliness, we need to make sure there are still community venues where people can access support and create friendships – such as pubs.”