We are sorry to announce that the Adult Befriending Service supported by Voluntary Action Orkney (VAO) is to close on 30 September 2023 due to the funding coming to an end.
The decision was based on a number of factors, one of which being that VAO’s role as a Third Sector Interface is to support, promote, develop and advocate the interests and role of the third sector locally in Orkney. We play a critical role in identifying effective ways to develop third sector capacity and build the collaborations to provide that capacity.
A number of adult befriending services exist within Orkney and given the increasingly competitive nature of the current funding landscape we feel that it is the right time to take proactive steps to support our sector colleagues in their efforts, rather than to put limited funds under more pressure.
Morven Brooks, Chief Executive at VAO said:
This has been an extremely difficult decision to make as the Adult Befriending Project supports many individuals through social isolation and loneliness. We are committed in supporting everyone who used the service. The world we live in is very challenging, and more so for third sector organisations. This is why we as a Third Sector Interface need to provide support and not be in direct competition with organisations seeking funding, ensuring that monies are directed to local third sector organisations and groups and to enable them to grow their current services.
If you would like to find out about befriending activities in Orkney, please contact the organisations below:
Salvation Army
Telephone: 872302
https://www.facebook.com/kirkwallsalvationarmy
- Tuesday Craft Club 2pm-4pm
- Wednesday Junction Café 11.30am- 2pm
- Friday 11am Friendship/Lunch Club lunch starts 12 noon
Age Scotland Orkney
Telephone: 01856 872438 or e mail enquiries@agescotlandorkney.org.uk
https://www.ageuk.org.uk/scotland/orkney/
Various groups held at The Hub in Victoria Street, Kirkwall on different days and times throughout the week. Friendship, social time and good fun. All activities are dementia friendly, everyone welcome.
Dementia Friendly Orkney Singing Group
Email: dfosecretary@gmail.com
Mondays 2pm at The Life Centre, Kirkwall
Orkney Men’s Shed, Stromness
https://the-orkney-mens-shed.business.site/
Two days a week- Tuesdays and Thursdays 10am – 4pm
The Blide Trust
Telephone: 01856 874874
https://www.blidetrust.org.uk/our-services/befriending
Various services
University of the third age-
Email: orkneyu3a@gmail.com
https://orkneycommunities.co.uk/U3A/
Various hobby type groups such as scrabble, walking, photography, book club, craft groups etc
Young at Heart Café
Telephone: 01856 871118
https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100095465680056
First and third Thursday of each month 3-4:30pm at The Life Centre, Kirkwall
