Volunteer as a befriender

Restore is known primarily as a befriending project. Trained volunteers meet with a refugee or asylum seeker about once a fortnight to offer the opportunity to share together, develop English language skills, explain British systems and culture, visit places of interest and signpost to other services.  Many of those with whom we work can build relationships with others from their own background, but befriending is a bridge into the wider community.

We ask those interested in befriending to attend our information and training courses, which currently take place 3 times a year.  There is no obligation to become a volunteer befriender at the end, this can be a opportunity to learn more about refugee issues and befriending, before deciding about volunteering.  After the course, those interested in befriending can apply.  That application process includes two references, an enhanced DBS check and a short informal interview.

Our next training course will be in June 2026- date coming soon!

If you would like more information when its available, please contact Jasmine, our Befriending Co-ordinator via jasmine@restore-uk.org. 

Restore training courses

The next training course for befrienders will take place on Saturday 7th February 2026.  To keep an eye on our social media for the dates of future training courses (Facebook and Instagram ).