Volunteer from home with Virtual Buddying

In an era of hybrid and remote working, what’s the best way to give your time? Virtual Buddying lets you volunteer from home, while making a real difference to disabled people facing social isolation. 

What is Virtual Buddying? 

Sense matches volunteers with disabled people to meet for an hour a week on Zoom or over the phone. 

So far, Sense’s volunteers have already spent thousands of hours with their buddies, learning new skills, having fun, and forming fantastic friendships.

The programme is designed to help people form strong connections with their buddies. Sense matches each volunteer with someone who has similar interests, to make sure you have a great time.  

Why’s it important? 

The pandemic and recent lockdowns have worsened social isolation and loneliness – especially for disabled people. 

Shielding vulnerable people often comes at the cost of social interaction, which is a crucial part of wellbeing and mental health.

Watch Saihan, one of the participants on the Virtual Buddying programme, talk about  what it means to him.

How does it work? 

1. Express your interest using the link below to receive an application form 
2. Sense will call for a quick chat to learn about your interests so we can find the right match 
3. You’ll receive some e-learning courses to prepare you. If you’re volunteering with an under-18, we’ll also request a DBS check 

And that’s it — time for your first session with your buddy! Sign up

What can you do with your buddy? 

What can’t you do! 

If you’d like to pick up some new skills, you can request materials from Sense. Want to learn Tai Chi with your buddy? How to dance, paint, or play an instrument? Sense can set you up! 

Bethany studies PTUK at Leeds Becket University and volunteers with Olivia — here’s what buddying has meant to her:

“I just know that on a Thursday I’m going to be laughing at the end of my day. It’s a really positive part of my week.”

Bethany