Dementia Befriender - Regular One-to-One Visits
Dementia Tauranga supported by Volunteering Services (BOP)
A few hours of your time, a big difference to a family
Many families caring for someone with dementia rarely get a break. As a Dementia Tauranga befriender, you visit the same person regularly, offering friendship and company while their carer has time for themselves.
If you are a good listener, enjoy getting to know people, and can offer a regular visit over the long term, we would love to meet you.
What the role looks like
- One regular visit of 1-3 hours, weekly or fortnightly, on an agreed day and time
- Time together at home, on an outing, or sometimes by phone
- Conversation, reminiscing, hobbies and activities the person enjoys
- Short notes after each visit so our team can support you and the family
Families depend on you being there
Carers plan around your visit, and people living with dementia notice changes in familiar faces. That is why we ask for a long-term commitment and notice when you can't make it. Consistency is part of the care we offer, not an extra.
You'll be a great fit if you can
- Commit to a regular visit over the long term (this role isn't suited to short-term or holiday volunteering)
- Give notice when you are unavailable
- Stay patient and calm, and be comfortable with repetition and changes in mood
- Treat the person with dignity and see the person first
- Respect the family's home, routines and privacy
- Work within the role and boundaries agreed with Dementia Tauranga
- Be open to dementia awareness training
What we offer
- Free dementia awareness training, with support from our team whenever you need it
- Flexibility to agree a visit day and time that works for you and the family
- Meaningful connection - many befrienders say they get as much from the friendship as the person they visit
No experience needed. A police check is required before visits begin, and we arrange it for you.
Next step
Apply here and you'll receive a link to our short registration form. Once we have it, we'll contact you within a few working days to book an interview at our office.