As Volunteers’ Week 2026 gets underway, all of us at Innovate Trust want to take a moment to talk about our wonderful sister charity, Skills & Volunteering Cymru (SVC). Specifically, we want to celebrate the incredible impact of their Befriending Project, and send a huge thank you to all the volunteer befrienders.
For individuals supported by Innovate Trust across Cardiff, Rhondda Cynon Taff, and the Vale of Glamorgan, this project has been truly life-changing at times. By pairing volunteers with the people we support, SVC creates meaningful, one-to-one connections that bring joy, confidence, and companionship to everyone involved.
What Makes the Befriending Project So Special?
The Befriending project is all about sharing experiences and building genuine friendships.
- Perfectly Matched: SVC pairs volunteers with beneficiaries based on mutual hobbies, interests, and location, ensuring a great connection right from the start.
- Fun Weekly Activities: From catching the latest movie at the cinema and enjoying day trips, to getting creative with arts and crafts or sharing a meal, the choice of activity is entirely up to the duo!
- A Lasting Impact: By dedicating just 2 to 3 hours a week, volunteers help break down barriers of isolation and loneliness. In turn, our beneficiaries gain self-esteem, reach personal goals, and experience a massive boost to their overall well-being.
Because building a strong friendship takes time, SVC asks volunteers for a minimum six-month commitment (and a standard DBS check) to ensure a stable, positive experience for the person they are matched with. It is a small commitment that yields massive, rewarding returns for both sides.
Voices from the Project
“I rated it as better than I imagined because the experience has felt genuinely meaningful in a very practical way. I expected to enjoy supporting someone, but I didn’t anticipate how quickly you start to see the impact of small, consistent interactions. Building a relationship at the person’s pace, noticing changes in their confidence or wellbeing, and being a stable point of contact has been really rewarding.”
I have a better understanding of how to deal with my emotions".
"I can get out more and do the things I want to do".
"Having a volunteer made me happy".
"My life is better [after having a befriender]". "Definitely became more confident".
Volunteer befriending has had a very positive impact on the staff teams I manage. It helps reduce pressure by giving staff more time to focus on essential tasks, while ensuring individuals still receive meaningful engagement. Befrienders contribute to a calmer, happier environment, which boosts team morale and supports a more collaborative atmosphere. Their presence allows staff to provide more personalised, focused care and improves the overall quality of support within the service. I think it is an excellent scheme and I am extremely appreciative of the experiences it has given to the individuals we support.
A heartfelt thank you
To every single volunteer who has dedicated their time to making life brighter, more inclusive, and full of laughter, thank you. You are making a world of difference.
Are you interested in becoming a befriender or want to learn more? Contact info@svcymru.org
