About
Volunteer with Cambridgeshire Deaf Association (CDA)
Make a difference in the lives of deaf and hard of hearing people across Cambridgeshire.
CDA has been supporting the local Deaf community for over ...
Become a Volunteer Befriender – Make a Real Difference in Someone’s Life
Contact person
Scan me or visit www.volunteercambs.org.uk/o/CDA-hearing-help/activities/Become-a-Volunteer-Befriender--Make-a-Real-Difference-in-Someones-Life/98120 to join
Summary
We’re looking for volunteers to join our brand-new Befriending Project, supporting people living with hearing loss across Cambridgeshire.Detailed description
What You’ll Do
As a volunteer befriender, you’ll be matched with someone who would love a bit of companionship. This might mean:
- Popping by for a chat
- Going for a gentle walk
- Attending local events together
- Joining in on group socials
It’s flexible, fulfilling, and most of all—it’s about building real human connection.
Who We’re Helping
Many people with hearing loss—especially in later life—can become isolated. Your time and friendship can bring comfort, joy, and a greater sense of inclusion.
What You’ll Need
- A kind heart and a willingness to connect
- A DBS check (we’ll arrange this for you)
- Commitment to making a positive impact
What You’ll Get
- Full training and ongoing support
- Reimbursement for travel and other agreed costs
- The chance to join a warm and welcoming volunteer community
About the Cambridgeshire Deaf Association
We’re a local charity dedicated to improving the lives of deaf and hard of hearing people.
Alongside our Hearing Help service (supporting hearing aid users since 1978), we are starting a Befriending Project for people with age related hearing loss.
What we will provide to volunteers
💸 Reimbursement of costs🤝 Extra supportAbout Cambridgeshire Deaf Association
Make a difference in the lives of deaf and hard of hearing people across Cambridgeshire.
CDA has been supporting the local Deaf community for over 100 years. Our volunteers play a vital role in reducing isolation, building confidence, and helping people stay connected.
We currently offer three rewarding ways to get involved:
1. Befriending
Join our team of volunteers providing regular companionship to deaf and hard of hearing people. This could be through home visits, video calls, or joining someone at a social activity. You don’t need to know British Sign Language (BSL) before starting—many volunteers learn and develop their skills along the way.
2. New! Hearing Help Befriending (for older adults)
Our brand-new project supports older people with age-related hearing loss who may be feeling lonely or cut off. Volunteers offer one-to-one support—such as visits, walks, or phone calls—as well as helping at group activities like coffee mornings, “Sing & Socialise” sessions, or gentle exercise classes.
3. Hearing Help
Support people with NHS hearing aids at local drop-in sessions. You’ll help with simple hearing aid maintenance, battery supply, and offer a friendly face. Just a few hours a month can make a huge difference to someone’s everyday life.
What you’ll gain
A chance to make a real difference in your community
Flexible opportunities—just 2–3 hours a month can change lives
Training and ongoing support (including BSL learning opportunities)
Reimbursement of expenses (e.g., travel)
The chance to meet new people and be part of a friendly, supportive team
Who we’re looking for
You don’t need any prior experience, just patience, empathy, and a willingness to listen and support others. Whether you’re confident with practical tasks, enjoy chatting over a cuppa, or want to help at group events, there’s a role for you.