People across Aberdeen are being invited to become part of the local response to loneliness at a special volunteer fair during Befriending Week.

The Aberdeen Befriending Network (the ABN) will hold a free public drop-in event at the Aberdeen Vaccination & Wellbeing Hub in the Bon Accord Centre on Saturday 7 November 2026, from 11am to 3pm.

A range of the ABN’s member organisations will be there to explain their work and the volunteering opportunities they offer. Visitors can meet the organisations, ask questions and explore roles that suit their interests, experience and availability. There will be no obligation to sign up on the day.

The opportunities extend beyond traditional one-to-one befriending. While some roles involve regular telephone calls or visits, volunteers might also help at a wellbeing café, support a group or activity that brings people together, or contribute professional and specialist skills that strengthen an organisation behind the scenes.

Why connection matters

Loneliness can affect anyone, particularly following bereavement, illness, retirement, disability, caring responsibilities or other major changes in life.

Its effects can extend beyond feeling alone. Research links loneliness and social isolation with poorer physical and mental health. It can also reduce a person’s confidence, making it harder to remain active, seek support and participate in their community.

Local people can help change that in many different ways. They could provide regular contact to someone who feels alone, help create welcoming places where people can meet or use their knowledge and experience to help a local organisation reach and support more people.

The ABN brings together 16 organisations providing befriending and related support across Aberdeen. During 2026–27, the network aims to support its member organisations to recruit at least 30 new volunteers, helping them increase their capacity and reach more people affected by loneliness and social isolation.

Jane Russell, Chair of the Aberdeen Befriending Network, said:

“When people hear the word ‘befriending’, they may immediately think about one-to-one visits or telephone calls. Those roles are incredibly valuable, but they are only part of the picture. Volunteers can also help run groups, support wellbeing cafés or contribute skills that help an organisation work more effectively. The public have an important part to play in tackling loneliness, and there are many different ways to get involved. This event will make it easy to meet local organisations, explore the opportunities available and discover how your time, experience or skills could make a real difference.”

The event is open to everyone, whether they are actively looking for a volunteering role or are simply interested in learning more.

Event details:

• Date: Saturday 7 November 2026
• Time: 11am-3pm
• Venue: Aberdeen Vaccination & Wellbeing Hub, Bon Accord Centre, George Street, Aberdeen AB25 1HZ
• Admission: Free, with no booking required

For more information, email info@aberdeenbefriendingnetwork.co.uk or visit aberdeenbefriendingnetwork.co.uk.