Engage Befriending

05/06/2026

It’s National Volunteer Week, and we are celebrating the incredible people who help us reduce isolation and loneliness for older people in the community.

Our volunteers don't just give their time – they build skills, connect with amazing people, and make a real impact.

Ready to make a difference? Find your perfect role and join our befriending community today.

👉 Sign up here: engage-uk.org/get-involved/

05/06/2026

We had such a lovely time coming together for Volunteer Week.

It was great to share food, spend time catching up, and take part in a really helpful resilience training session with Ali – thank you!

A huge thank you to all our fantastic volunteers. Your support makes such a difference to the people we work with, and we’re so grateful for everything you do 🌟

02/06/2026

The June edition of our newsletter is out now! This issue, we have a feature about ‘Biscuit Town’ celebrating National biscuit day, and all about the benefits of gardening, as well as other facts and puzzles. Read it herehttps://engage-uk.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/June2026.pdf

01/06/2026

As part of volunteer week we have been celebrating what’s great about volunteering. Here is what our volunteer Terry has to say:

"I joined Engage during the covid year of 2020 when I heard about the need for telephone befriending through my church.

My favourite thing about volunteering is that you know you are doing some good, it’s nice to help people and feels worthwhile. I used to volunteer in a more physical capacity, like helping in a café and DIY jobs for people. I’m now in my late 80’s but still enjoy helping people and this is my contribution.

Doing something helps you feel connected. I have befriended 3 people since I started and usually call once a week. We have good chats and have become friends. "

Thank you Terry! You’ve made a big difference in brightening someone’s day

14/05/2026

We had a really lovely time at our drop in today! Kate from Get Berkshire Active came to lead a session of games for our minds, which were a lot of fun. With a social chat and a cup of tea it was a good way to spend the morning.

12/05/2026

Our May newsletter is ready for you to read.

This issue, we have a feature on the joys of singing with a community choir, a Trolly Bus Treasure from our April drop-in, and other facts and puzzles.

To read it visit our website: engage-uk.org/our-monthly-newsletter

31/03/2026

Our April newsletter is ready for you to read.

This issue, we have a feature on keeping your mind well and active, a quiz about Reading, tips to help you feel calmer, and other facts and puzzles.

To read it visit our website: engage-uk.org/our-monthly-newsletter

27/03/2026

The Rahab team are looking for an Outreach Worker and help bring hope and transformation to women facing complex challenges.

16 hrs/week • £29k FTE

Please see the website for further information: rahab.co.uk/blogandnews

27/03/2026

Thank you to everyone who sponsored Dan at the Reading half last Sunday.
With gift aid he reached his target of £500. Thank you so much, it will make a difference. 👍🏃🎉

17/03/2026

https://www.justgiving.com/page/daniel-curtis-199997?utm_medium=FR&utm_source=WA
Daniel Curtis has been training well and is looking forward to raising funds and running on Sunday. Let's hope the weather is favourable too 😊

Help Daniel Curtis raise money to support The Mustard Tree