Two women enjoy tea together, laughing and chatting. Supporting friendships for sight loss.

Befriending Service

Supporting People with Sight Loss Through Social Connection

Walthew House VI 121 Befriending Service

Supporting People with Sight Loss Through Social Connection

A new befriending initiative connecting volunteer befrienders with blind and partially sighted individuals across Stockport and surrounding areas

Reduce Isolation. Boost Confidence. Build Meaningful Connections.

Living with sight loss can be isolating — but you don’t have to face it alone

VI 121 is a new befriending initiative from Walthew House that pairs volunteer befrienders with blind and partially sighted individuals across Stockport and surrounding areas.

Together, we create meaningful one-to-one relationships that reduce loneliness, improve emotional wellbeing, and empower people to feel connected in their communities.

Reduce isolation and loneliness

Boost confidence and emotional wellbeing

Empower individuals to feel more connected and included in their communities

What Our Team Says

"Many people with sight loss face barriers that make it difficult to stay connected. Through VI 121, we want to create opportunities for meaningful partnerships and empowerment."

Nina Chesworth

Project Coordinator

"As someone who is registered blind and a lifelong Stockport resident, I'm really excited about the positive impact this will have."

Rachael Zimbler

Chair of the Board of Trustees

Need Support? We're Here to Help

Blind or partially sighted adults living in Stockport and the surrounding areas can benefit from VI 121, especially those seeking companionship to reduce feelings of isolation or anyone looking to boost their confidence through supportive friendship. Heres how it works:

01 Get in Touch

Contact Nina to discuss your needs and interests.

📧 nina@walthewhouse.org.uk

📞 0161 480 2612

02 Perfect Match

We'll carefully match you with a suitable befriender

03 Build Connection

Start building a meaningful one-to-one relationship

Complete Accessibility:

This service is completely free and we provide all information in accessible formats including audio, large print, and Braille.

Become a Volunteer Befriender

We're looking for caring, dedicated volunteers to join us in making a difference. As a befriender you will:

  • Offer compassionate companionship based on empowerment principles
  • Tailor support according to each befriendee’s interests and needs
  • Receive full training before starting alongside ongoing support throughout your volunteering journey

Befriender Enquire

Frequently Asked Questions

Who can become a befriender?

Anyone aged over 18 who is caring, reliable, patient, and committed can apply. Full training will be provided.

What kind of commitment is expected?

Typically around one hour per week meeting or calling your matched befriendee at times convenient for both parties.

Is this service free?

Yes! The VI 121 Befriending Service is completely free for participants

How do I know if I qualify as a befriendee?

If you are blind or partially sighted living within Stockport or nearby areas—and would like social connection—you are welcome!

Get Involved Today

Ready to Connect?

Whether you need support or want to become a befriender, we'd love to hear from you. Nina is here to answer any questions and help you get started.


Service Area: Stockport and surrounding areas

Cost: Completely free

Eligibility: Open to all people with sight loss

Contact Nina Chesworth

Project Coordinator


📧 nina@walthewhouse.org.uk


📞 0161 480 2612


Office hours: Monday-Thursday 9:00am-4:00pm