A charity is appealing for additional volunteer befrienders across north Shropshire to help reduce an increasing waiting list of older people requesting its befriending service.

Age UK Shropshire Telford and Wrekin (Age UK STW), which helps older people to enjoy later life, is particularly looking for people in the Wem and Whitchurch areas who can donate a couple of hours of their time between 9.00 am and 5.00 pm during the working week.

Heather Osborne, chief executive officer of Age UK STW, said: “Our volunteer befrienders provide valuable, confidential support to older people who may be experiencing loneliness and isolation. They offer companionship, a good listening ear and act as a link between the person and services provided by Age UK STW, as well as other local organisations.

“Our volunteers come from all walks of life. They may be newly retired from the world of work, in part-time work and looking to do something positive in their community, or they might have experienced the feeling of loneliness themselves, been helped through it and wish to give something back.

“Befriending can be incredibly rewarding. We offer training, expenses and on-going support to ensure all our volunteers are confident and happy in their roles.”

For more information, please call Age UK STW’s Volunteer Recruitment Team on 01743 588 570, email volunteering@ageukstw.org.uk or visit www.ageukshropshireandtelford.org.uk