Family Care Homes call for Volunteer Befrienders

Family-led care provider, Morris Care has issued a call for volunteer Befrienders to spend time with Care Home residents missing the company of family and friends.

Helping set the ball in motion, young members of the Morris family volunteered to trial the Befriender concept and were a huge hit immediately across the homes. The call is now being extended to residents' families and the local community, who may be able to give up some time to make a difference.

In addition to providing company and a listening ear to residents, the first new Befrienders have helped residents to connect with families using Whatsapp, Facetime and Skype, walking around the beautiful gardens and grounds the Homes enjoy, as well as playing games, joining in activities and generally socialising and befriending residents.

Katie Morris said: "Our staff are working incredibly hard caring for our residents, but inevitably, they are missing their regular visitors. These are extraordinary times but if we can find the right people to give up some of their time, it will make a huge difference.

'We are looking kind and compassionate people who are IT-literate and enjoy social interaction and making friends and we welcome all enquiries.'

Befrienders will be health checked and prepared for their new role through an easy e-learning programme before joining the teams with plenty of support and practical guidance within the Home environment.

The photo shows Guy Morris, son of Company Chairman Robin Morris, outside Corbrook Park Care Home.

To find out more about the scheme visit

www.morriscare.co.uk or email info@morriscare.co.uk

Morris Care operates six nursing homes in Shropshire and Cheshire. The care home company has visiting restrictions in place to protect its residents' safety and wellbeing.