Become a befriender and help to beat the scourge of loneliness

If you could spare an hour or two a week or month, East Dunbartonshire Voluntary Action’s Befriending Service wants to hear from you.

According to EDVA, loneliness costs lives and is linked to a range of chronic conditions, including high blood pressure and depression. It also more than doubles the risk of developing dementia.

A volunteer said: “It’s not just older people who are affected. Research shows that up to half of younger people are lonely.”

She added: “Due to high demand for the service in this area, we are seeking volunteers. If you would like to make a difference to isolated people in your community, call us on 0141 578 6680.”