The Aberdeen Befriending Network

09/03/2026

Aberdeen City Council is asking people across the city to help shape the future of Aberdeen through the Aberdeen 2036 consultation.

At the Aberdeen Befriending Network, we see how important connection and community are. Too many people still experience loneliness, isolation and mental health challenges, and the future of our city should be shaped with those realities in mind.

This is your chance to speak up and help build a city that is more connected, compassionate and inclusive for everyone.

Take a few minutes to share your views here:
https://aberdeen2036consultation.commonplace.is/

We are now consulting on our draft Local Outcome Improvement Plan 2026-36, our North, South and Central Locality Plans 2026-36 and Children's Services Plan 2026-31. Survey closes on 20 March 2026.

26/02/2026

📢 On 12 June 2025, research showed that almost half of people over 50 in Scotland experience loneliness some or all of the time — and that includes people right here in our communities. 💔

Like Alex from Motherwell, who said:

“I don’t have any family or friends around now… the TV is just to stop the silence.”

That’s the reality many face every day.

Across Aberdeen, the charities and organisations in the Aberdeen Befriending Network (ABN) are at the sharp end tackling this — offering chats, meet-ups, support, and real connection. The ABN exists to support and champion that vital work.

No one in our city should feel alone. 💛

How loneliness is affecting older people in Scotland

19/02/2026

We were at the University of Aberdeen Volunteer Fair today – and it was so encouraging to meet students who want to make a real difference in our city.

Every conversation about befriending is a step towards a more connected, compassionate Aberdeen. Volunteers are at the heart of that change.

If you stopped by for a chat, thank you – we’d love to stay connected 💛

10/02/2026

Yesterday we were live on SHMU radio talking about the Aberdeen Befriending Network—what it is, why it exists, and the difference befriending makes for people across the city.

I was joined by Lesley from Aberdeen Action on Disability as we shared how local organisations are working together to tackle loneliness and help people feel more connected.

You can listen back to the show here:
https://www.mixcloud.com/SHMUFM/stay-well-stay-connected-chats-with-the-aberdeen-befriending-network/

City Health and Social Care Partnership

22/01/2026

This short video highlights the amazing work being done — and the volunteers who make it possible at Living Well Befriending.

If you’re looking for a meaningful way to give back, just one hour a week could make a real difference. Have a watch and get involved.

20/01/2026

👏 So encouraging to see King’s Community Foundation reflecting on a year of community impact. Proud to see Soaring Seniors as part of the Aberdeen Befriending Network and the difference they make through befriending 💛

05/01/2026

Loneliness doesn’t always shout — sometimes it whispers.
And in 2026, we’re choosing to listen.

Together, we’re tackling loneliness and social isolation across Aberdeen by strengthening befriending services and the people behind them.

💙 We need your support — whether that’s volunteering your time, championing connection, or helping ensure no one faces life alone this year.

22/12/2025

💛 Loneliness doesn’t stop for Christmas.

Over a million older people can go more than a month without speaking to someone they know. That’s a sobering thought — but it’s also a reminder of how powerful simple connection can be.

In Aberdeen, befriending is making a real difference. A call, a visit, a conversation — small moments that brighten someone’s day and remind them they’re not forgotten.

Let’s keep looking out for one another. 💬✨

According to research from Age UK, over one million older people say they go more than a month without speaking to a friend, neighbour or family member.

Did you know Aberdeen City has a local Befriending Network? Follow The Aberdeen Befriending Network for more information 🤝

NHS Grampian Aberdeen City Libraries Aberdeen City School Nurses Community Planning Aberdeen Communities Aberdeen Community Pharmacy Grampian -NHSG Communities Torry

02/12/2025

🌟 Member Spotlight! 🌟

We’re delighted to highlight one of our Aberdeen Befriending Network members today — TLC.

They’re doing fantastic work supporting people across Aberdeen through friendship, connection, and community. 💛

👉 Check out their page to see the brilliant impact they’re making and give them a follow!
Together, we’re building a more connected, caring Aberdeen. 💬🤝

Sometimes the best friendships begin with nothing more than a cup of tea and an open heart. 💛☕
Here’s to the quiet moments that bring the right people into our lives.
.

20/11/2025

💜 Supporting ! 🍽️

Our friends at (Food Train) are looking for volunteer cooks in Aberdeen to support their fantastic meal share programme.

If you enjoy cooking and want to brighten an older neighbour’s day with a home-cooked meal and a friendly chat, this is a simple but powerful way to make a difference.

👉 Check out their volunteer post below and please give it a share to help spread the word across Aberdeen.
Together we can tackle loneliness, build community, and support older people to stay connected. 💬✨

We are looking for volunteer cooks in your area for our local meal sharing project. If you would like to volunteer please follow the link (also in the first comment)
https://form.jotform.com/Food_Train/volunteer-enquiry
or for more information please contact: [email protected]

19/11/2025

🌼 Shining a Light in Aberdeen 🌼

Marie Curie volunteers don’t just give time — they bring comfort, connection, and friendship when people need it most. As part of the Aberdeen Befriending Network, they help tackle loneliness and offer vital emotional support across our city.

But more people than ever need someone in their corner — and our network needs more volunteers to help.

✨ Could you be a befriender in Aberdeen?
With just a little time and a lot of empathy, you can make a life-changing difference. Volunteering is flexible, meaningful, and strengthens our whole community.

💛 Find out more about befriending opportunities across the Aberdeen Befriending Network by emailing us at [email protected] .

Your kindness could change a life — including your own.

04/11/2025

💜 We had a fantastic time bringing members of the Aberdeen Befriending Network together this week!

It was a brilliant chance to connect, share ideas, and look ahead to the exciting future of befriending across Aberdeen. 🌟

Huge thanks to everyone who came along — your passion and collaboration are what make the network so special. Here’s to continuing to grow, support, and inspire one another! 🙌