Welcome to The Archway Foundation

Feelings of loneliness affect people of all ages and backgrounds. Loneliness can be caused by external circumstances - lack of mobility, mental or physical ill health, bereavement, relationship break up, redundancy and retirement. Sometimes, however, we may feel lonely with no obvious external cause. To get out of the house or flat, to enjoy some entertainment and to have someone to talk to are all helpful ways of dealing with feelings of isolation and loneliness.

The Archway Foundation (known simply as Archway) was established in Oxford in 1982 by Paul Hawgood to help serve those hurt by loneliness. We are aware of needs elsewhere and so we are developing the service in Abingdon.

Founded on Christian values, Archway is committed to serving adults hurt by loneliness irrespective of sexual orientation, religion, culture or background.

Archway helps relieve some of the distress caused by loneliness. It does this through a variety of supportive activities and by recruiting an essential team of volunteers (drivers and befrienders are urgently needed).

If you wish to make use of the service or attend one of the Archway activities we will first meet with you to listen and help you to explore ways in which you could find the appropriate level of support that you need. What you share will be kept in confidence.

See also using the service or contact us to find out more.