Friends for Life is the only charity providing a befriending service to lonely, socially isolated people in Bedford's care homes

Friends for Life is a charity, working to address the social isolation of residents within Bedford Borough care homes. We recognise the negative impact loneliness can have on a person’s well-being. We work to address this by recruiting volunteers to become personal befrienders, offering friendship and company to care home residents who have few or no external visitors.

We were founded in 2007 and have grown from a small local initiative to a charity with around 70 volunteers, supporting 30 care homes primarily in Bedford Borough; something which we are very proud of. Have a look at our impact.

We have recently expanded further, offering an Outreach Service. Our aim is to build intergenerational relationships and provide residents with a variety of stimulating, fulfilling activities; we do this by connecting local care homes with community groups, businesses, colleges and schools.

We’re always looking for new local connections. If you can help, find out more about partnering with us.