Volunteers from Kincardine and Deeside Befriending were presented with certificates from Provost Bill Howatson for five and ten years service.
K&D Befriending is a small local registered charity which aims to reduce social isolation and loneliness in older people.

Loneliness is closely linked to depression, ill health and poor well-being. To reduce the impact of this loneliness a befriending pilot was set up by Aberdeenshire Council in 1996.

All befriending volunteers are trained and matched to an older person on a one to one basis. They visit regularly and undertake activities such as home visits, trips to places of local interest and sharing hobbies and interests.

Feedback from an evaluation report in 2008 showed that the support from a befriender helped older people to remain in their own home for longer, feel better about themselves and stay connected with the community.

Two people, Margaret Edmond and Mary Slessor, were awarded with certificates for 10 years service. Jess Stevenson, John Morris, Carole Fyvie, May Davidson, Fiona Mackenzie and Babs Wright were presented with certificates for five years service at the K&D Befriending AGM held last Thursday.

Staff, volunteers and befriendees were treated to tea and cakes and live musical performances.

Speaking at the event Provost Howatson said: "We cannot forget the work that these volunteers do. The amount of work they put in is so important. As a council we respect and appreciate the work put in, it may be a small local charity, but it gives a huge service. Volunteers are the backbone of these services and we can do little without their support."

If you are interested in becoming a volunteer with K&D Befriending contact them on 01569 765714 or email befriending@hotmail.com