BEFRIENDING SERVICE

A Listening ear and a Helping hand.

FAIR - a family and a friend

Families Acting for Innocent Relatives was formed by victims for victims and we have been a friend to many over the years.

Befriending services are an important part of what FAIR now focuses on. They will often involve a volunteer befriender visiting a victim in their home, perhaps for a cup of tea and a chat, or accompanying them to an activity (such as a trip to a cafe or an event ).

In some cases, a volunteer may accompany the victim to occasional hospital or doctor’s appointments. We provide a listening ear and a helping hand where it is needed. The role of victims as volunteers is what makes our services special.

Having someone who has experienced the same loss or is living with similar pain can make all the difference

Befriending has become a lifeline for a lot of our members, especially the elderly and for all that are isolated and living alone in very rural areas. For those finding it difficult to interact with others through mistrust and lack of confidence we are able to improve this by taking them out for coffee, bring them into Group meetings, day trips away, share time at Christmas, an overnight respite.

FAIR provides this service enabling those people to continue with a normal life and become part of the community as opposed to being hospitalised or having to live in residential care. The system provides a service that the Health Trust is no longer able to cope with and saves a huge amount of money by enabling them to reside in their own homes. Through this support elderly members are able to become more confident, independent with improved health and wellbeing.

Befriending means Being There

Our Befriender programme is a life line to victims as they live with loss

Listening and Helping

If you or someone you know could benefit from befriending then speak to us today. Our services are free and confidential and offer real support to those who suffer loss and loneliness.

Befrienders are trained volunteers or professionals who possess a deep understanding of the psychological and emotional impact of terrorism. They offer a listening ear, emotional support, and practical guidance to those affected, helping them navigate the complex journey of healing and recovery.

The primary objective of victims of terrorism befriender services is to ensure that no one has to face the aftermath of terrorism alone. Befrienders work to establish trusting relationships with the victims, providing them with a sense of companionship and understanding. They offer non-judgmental support, validation of feelings, and assist in accessing appropriate resources, such as counselling services, legal aid, or financial assistance.

These befriender services are often tailored to meet the unique needs of each individual, recognising that everyone copes and heals differently. Befrienders may engage in one-on-one conversations, group support sessions, or even organise social activities to foster a sense of community and belonging.

By offering their time, compassion, and expertise, befriender services contribute significantly to the overall well-being and recovery of victims of terrorism. Their presence helps individuals regain a sense of control, rebuild their lives, and find hope in the face of adversity.

From telephone support and advice to visits and volunteer support with everyday life, let one of our team of volunteer befrienders  help you today.

The best way to begin is by completing a short referral form which will help us to help you better. It is confidential and will allow us to tailor care and support to best fit your needs.