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Good Neighbours Project

A Churches Together in Fareham initiative

Objects and Aims

The objective of this initiative is to demonstrate the meaning of Christian love by good neighbourliness. For instance; welcoming people moving into the area and befriending those suffering loneliness or infirmity, or the pressures on a Carer.

The intention is to supplement the pastoral care provided by individual Churches by making contact with people who may not be in close touch with any Church and who lack the regular support of family or friends.

Volunteers are not alternatives to Social Services, nor do they offer counseling. Rather they provide a sympathetic listening ear and will hope to put those involved with a crisis in touch with an appropriate Organisation - including our Churches. Each volunteer is provided with the information likely to be needed to fulfil this modest aim.

How do we operate?

We bring together lonely, elderly or infirm people with a regular visitor who will befriend them. Operating only in Fareham Town, we receive referrals (with permission) from Ministers, Church members, health professionals, social services, relatives and other caring and observant people.

If you know someone in Fareham who is in need and who would like a fortnightly visitor, please ring Kate Simmonds on 01329-287384

Our Volunteers

Almost all come from Churches Together in Fareham. Thanks to the active support of all the Churches, Fareham Good Neighbours are able to demonstrate Christian action by befriending the elderly and infirm. Currently there are some 60 volunteers. All receive training before beginning to visit and regular briefings keep them up to date. As more lonely people are referred to the Good Neighbours scheme, more volunteers are needed to bridge the loneliness gap. If you can spare an hour each fortnight to befriend somebody please get in touch with our parish contact.

Roger Chadwick