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Local Community Partnership

Community Partnership with Time To Talk Befriending

Kingsway Care volunteers at the Time To Talk Befriending Durrington meeting

“The Kingsway Care team have already made such a difference,” says Emily. “It’s so reassuring to know trained professionals are there, just in case.”

Time To Talk Befriending Charity

We’re proud to share that Kingsway Care has been personally invited by Emily Kenward, the Founder and CEO of The King's award-winning charity, Time to Talk Befriending, to provide professional care support at their weekly community events.

This special partnership was inspired by something close to Emily’s heart, her best friend Glen. Glen is a stroke survivor and receives regular home care visits from our amazing Senior CareGiver, Peta. Over time, Emily saw first-hand how Glen’s confidence and quality of life had improved since Kingsway Care began supporting him.

Emily gives Kingsway Care a 5 star review

Emily kindly wrote a five star review on Homecare.co.uk praising Kingsway Care.

After gentle encouragement, Glen even wrote again for the first time since his stroke 10 years ago. And what did he write? A happy Easter message for his best friend Emily while taking part in the Kingsway Care Easter Crafting Challenge!

Glen writes an Easter Card for his best friend Emily

You can read more about Glen and Peta in our Easter Crafting Challenge blog.

Choosing Trusted Care Professionals

So, when Emily needed trusted, compassionate professionals to support guests with mobility and continence needs at her befriending events, she knew who to call. And we didn’t hesitate to say yes!

Community, Friendship & Care

Time to Talk Befriending runs four monthly group events at welcoming venues across Brighton, Hove and Worthing. These events bring together older people, many of whom are living with multiple long-term health conditions, for a chance to socialise, laugh, and feel included.

To make sure these events are safe and accessible for everyone, Kingsway CareGivers are now on hand to offer professional support with:

  • Getting members safely to and from venues
  • Manual handling and wheelchair assistance
  • On-call personal care, should anyone need extra support during the event
  • And most importantly companionship throughout the sessions

This extra layer of care allows Time to Talk Befriending incredible team of 350 volunteers to focus on what they do best: creating joyful moments and meaningful friendships.

Where & When

The Time To Talk Befriending events take place monthly at the following community hubs:

  • Hangleton Manor, Hove
  • City Coast Centre, Portslade
  • Woodingdean Community Centre
  • Durrington Community Centre, Worthing

Each venue is filled with warmth, chatter, tea, and cake and now, the added reassurance of Kingsway Care support when needed. Kingsway CareGiver, Andrew, has already enjoyed attending several events and commented:

"It was wonderful to see everyone enjoying the tea, cake, and conversation. There was so much laughter and joy in the room.

They really appreciated the chance to get out and socialise. Most of the people I spoke to said they wished it happened more than once a month! (in their area)."

Feedback from Time to Talk Befriending

Our partnership with Time to Talk Befriending is all about helping older people feel connected, valued, and supported in the community. Recently, the team shared how much difference our CareGivers are making to their events:

It has been a huge relief having trained carers supporting our volunteers, especially when it comes to physically assisting older people. Knowing there is extra support for guests when accessing the minibuses and during the journey has been particularly valuable. It is so reassuring to be able to rely on Kingsway staff on the day of events, which reduces stress and worry when running them. All Kingsway Care staff we have met so far have been wonderful and extremely helpful.

We are proud that our CareGivers are making life easier for volunteers and event organisers, while creating a safe, relaxed environment for scheme members to enjoy social activities. Partnerships like these show the real value of combining professional care with community spirit.

About Time To Talk Befriending Events FAQ

Time To Talk Befriending Logo

Learn more about the amazing Time To Talk Befriending Charity

Who is Time to Talk Befriending for?
Anyone who feels lonely or isolated, especially older adults living alone in the Brighton, Hove & Worthing area.

What happens at the befriending events?
Guests enjoy tea, cake, and conversation in a warm, welcoming setting with support from volunteers and Kingsway Care CareGivers if needed.

How can I get involved or refer someone?
Visit Time to Talk Befriending’s website or speak to the Kingsway Care team.

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