Referring patients to our Compassionate Neighbours programme

Julie Millington

Complex Case Manager for Watford and Three Rivers Community Adult Health Service

Julie often refers frail and socially isolated patients to the Compassionate Neighbour scheme, which connects people with a companion who can provide friendship and emotional support. Julie talks about how the Compassionate Neighbour scheme has helped her patients become healthier - both physically and mentally – and grow in confidence.

“People often say to me ‘I’m not lonely!’, but they may have clear signs of loneliness. ”

“When a patient comes onto my caseload, I complete a holistic assessment where I look at every element of their life, which includes a loneliness survey.

“Many of my patients have complex needs, they may be frail, have had falls and may not have support from family. Having a Compassionate Neighbour visit them regularly and maybe take them out, often makes people more confident to do things on their own.  They are more likely to connect with their community and participate in things they enjoy. 

“Some of my patients struggle to keep up with daily practical tasks and their Compassionate Neighbour can also support with this. 

“The fact that it is free is very important as some of the patients I refer are under financial pressure.  It is easy to refer patients to the Compassionate Neighbour scheme, and the team at Rennie Grove Peace are always very helpful and responsive.”

Some of our Compassionate Neighbour matches:

Compassionate Neighbours

Find out more about our Compassionate Neighbour programme and how you can register to get matched with one of our volunteers.

Find out more

Search

Referring patients to our Compassionate Neighbours programme