Q&A with GAMH Volunteer Befriending coordinator Corinne

During Volunteers Week, we’re continuing to celebrate the vital role volunteers play in GAMH’s work. This time, we’re talking to team member Corinne, who manages GAMH’s Volunteer Befriending programme. We will learn more about the contribution of volunteer befrienders and their positive impact on the lives of people in Glasgow. 

Volunteer Befriending: Tackling loneliness and isolation

“Many of the people we support may struggle to feel they have a purpose to leave their home or feel isolated due to their mental health”, explains Corinne.
 
Mental health challenges can often leave individuals feeling lonely and lacking the confidence to get out and about. A growing disconnect with their community and a lack of purpose can compound those issues. The Volunteer Befriending programme aims to tackle them head-on. 
 
“Through regular support from a volunteer befriender, they can begin taking small positive steps such as going for walks, visiting museums, attending community groups, or simply spending time with someone who listens and supports them without judgement.”

Witnessing the positive impact of Volunteer Befriending

Having been a member of the GAMH team for several years, Corinne has seen first-hand the positive impact of the Volunteer Befriending project: “It’s amazing to see someone grow in confidence, become more socially connected, and start enjoying activities they may not have felt able to do before.”

For Corinne, that is where much of the satisfaction lies. However, it is not just about what the befriendee gets out of the project: “Volunteering doesn’t just benefit the person receiving support, it can also have a huge positive impact on the volunteer themselves.”

“Volunteer Befriending can build confidence, develop new skills, and provide a real sense of purpose”, she concludes.

Yes, you could be a Volunteer Befriender too

As you’d expect of a programme with ‘Volunteer’ in the name, volunteers are the lifeblood of the project. Corinne is quick to emphasise that almost anyone can get involved. 

“You don’t need professional experience in mental health to become a volunteer befriender”, she says. “The most important qualities are being approachable, patient, reliable, and a good listener. Having empathy and a non-judgemental attitude is key.”

For those interested in Volunteer Befriending, Corinne and the wider GAMH team work to ensure they are suitably prepared and ready for their role.

“GAMH provides volunteers with training before they begin, as well as ongoing guidance and supervision throughout their volunteering journey”, she explains.

“Volunteers have regular check-ins and always have someone they can contact for support or advice if needed. GAMH as an organisation really values its volunteers and works hard to make sure they feel supported, prepared, and appreciated.”

As we finish up our chat, we ask Corinne to sum up what it means to be a volunteer befriender for GAMH: “It’s a great opportunity for anyone wanting to give back to their community, gain experience, and make a real difference in people’s lives.”

Interested in supporting the work of GAMH as a volunteer?

GAMH volunteers come from all walks of life and backgrounds. You don’t need special skills; just the desire to help others get back to better mental health.

Learn more about Volunteering Befriending with GAMH or register your interest.

Practical support on the path to mental health recovery

Every day, GAMH is helping people in Glasgow on the path to mental health recovery. If you are recovering from mental health problems and are looking for support, you can learn more about GAMH’s services for Adults, Young People, and Carers, and how to be referred by your GP.

We provide a comprehensive range of individual, self-directed, and group support services in Glasgow.

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