What We Do
Archway provides a range of services to sustainably create connection and reduce isolation both within our own services and in the wider community in Oxfordshire. Most social contact roles within Archway are performed by trained volunteers.
We recognise that people who are referred to us may be feeling anxious, stressed, lonely and isolated for many different reasons. By working together, we support people to make steps towards achieving positive changes to their overall wellbeing.
People can refer themselves or are referred to us by professionals (e.g. Social Services, a GP, another registered charity or care provider) or friends and family. For more information on the referral/self-referral process click here.
Telephone Support
Our Telephone Support Service links up a Friend with a Volunteer, who will call them once every two weeks for social contact conversations and support.
The calls will vary in length but are generally anywhere between 15 minutes and an hour – whatever works best for the Friend on any given day.
Face-to-Face Support
Our Face-to-Face Support Service links up a Friend with a Volunteer who will meet them either out of their home (e.g. for a coffee or a walk) or if the Friend is unable to leave their home, they will visit them at home.
Social Groups
Our social groups provide a monthly opportunity to meet in Oxford, Banbury or Abingdon.
These groups offer a welcoming, safe and supportive environment in which Archway Friends can meet with and gain confidence in relating to others, develop new friendships and ultimately engage with people and activities in their local community.
The provision of our services is dependent upon a needs assessment and a safety assessment undertaken by a member of our staff team.
For home visits, this will entail a visit to the home of the person referred, for other services it is most likely that the assessments will be done outside the home, either in a public place where there is a quiet and private space for a conversation, or at one of our social groups.