LONELINESS is often exacerbated by the festive period when those without family or close friends can feel even more isolated. Now a local befriending charity is calling for more volunteers to cope with the demand for its services.

Community Connections, a Monmouthshire-based project that provides Abergavenny’s befriending service and community car scheme started in April to support people unable to use public transport.

Since its start the scheme has covered 2,980 miles across 376 trips. It has a total of 86 passengers registered and now they are seeking new volunteers to join the fourteen regulars on their books.

Coordinator, Amanda Brake told the Chronicle, ‘Anyone with a car and time to spare is invited to join the Car Scheme team. Volunteers can give as much or as little time as they choose, and the Car Scheme coordinator will help liaise with insurance companies to arrange cover for volunteering.

‘All Car Scheme drivers can be reimbursed for their running costs. Anyone wishing to find out more about getting involved can call 07741 572 897.’

Community Connections befriending scheme supports older people who may not be able to get out, or those who live alone with little or no family in the area. Volunteer befrienders visit lonely and isolated older people to provide company and friendship.

The scheme currently supports 50 people in Monmouthshire with befriending visits, telephone befriending, and/or social groups, but needs more volunteers to reach others who are on their own.

Volunteers are only asked to be able to spare an hour a week, and yet their visits are often the highlight of the week for the people supported who may go days without seeing anyone.

Amanda said, ‘You don’t need any special skills or qualifications to become a befriender – if you are kind and patient person who would like to help, Community Connections would love to hear from you.

‘During the festive period we often think of those who are on their own or need a little extra help – if you would like to get involved, please get in touch on 07765 282 523.’