What is being done?

The hospital befriending scheme at the Royal United Hospital in Bath is a new and exciting volunteering activity led by the local Alzheimer’s Society. The pilot scheme extends the existing befriending carried out in the community into a hospital setting.

What is new and different?

Volunteers provide companionship and re-assurance to people with dementia helping them to take part in social and recreational activities.

What difference this seems to be making

The well-being of people with dementia is significantly improved by participating in social and recreational activities.

Plans for taking the project forward

Recruitment of volunteers to the befriending scheme is ongoing.