Who we help

Loneliness does not only happen to the old

Most of the families who come to us are arranging companionship for an older mum or dad, and that is still the heart of what we do. But loneliness and isolation are not only an older person's problem. They can affect any adult whose world has become smaller, whether through age, ill health, disability, sight loss, or simply life changing around them.

So while older people are who we help most often, they are not the only ones. If someone is isolated and would value a friendly, reliable companion, we are glad to help, whatever their age. Read more about companion support for younger adults.

The people we support

Companionship looks different for everyone, but the people we help often include:

• Older adults who are alone more than they would like, or who have lost the confidence to get out on their own.
• Adults living with sight loss or partial sight, who would value a companion to talk to, get out with, and help them stay connected and independent.
• Adults with a disability or a long-term health condition who find it hard to get out and about by themselves.
• People recovering from an illness or a spell in hospital who need company, encouragement and a gentle hand back into their routine.
• Anyone who has become isolated or housebound and simply misses regular company and a reason to get out.

If your situation is not on this list but you think a companion could help, just ask. We would rather have the conversation than have you assume it is not for you.

What a companion can do

The help is the same whoever it is for. A companion is there for the ordinary, human things that keep someone connected and themselves:

• Friendly company and real conversation, on a regular basis.
• Walks, outings and trips out, at a pace that suits the person.
• Accompanying someone to appointments, the hospital, the shops or a group, and back home again.
• A little light help around the home, done together.
• A familiar, friendly eye on how someone is really doing.

We will always talk through what matters to you first, and match a companion who is comfortable supporting it.

What we do not do

We are companions, not a care agency, and we are upfront about it. We do not provide washing, dressing, toileting, medication or any clinical or specialist care task. Personal care is a regulated activity under the Health and Social Care Act 2008, and it is not provided through this platform. If someone needs that kind of support, just ask and we will gladly point you toward the right help.

How it works

You tell us a little about the person and what would help. We suggest vetted local companions, and you choose who visits, so it never feels like a stranger has been sent. Every companion is DBS checked, vetted and insured, and you can start with a single visit, with no long contract. We support adults across Hertford, Ware, Hoddesdon, Broxbourne and the surrounding SG11 to SG14 and EN10 to EN11 areas.

Not sure if we can help? Just ask

If you or someone you care about is feeling isolated and you are wondering whether a companion could help, we would be glad to have a calm, no obligation chat.

AirCarers Companion · aircarerscompanion.co.uk · 07455 750006