Carers Oxfordshire launches new befriending service to tackle isolation among unpaid carers

Carers Oxfordshire has launched Carers Phone Friends, a new initiative offering friendly, regular phone calls to unpaid carers across the county. The service aims to reduce loneliness, offer emotional support and help carers feel more connected in their everyday lives.

Caring for a loved one can be rewarding, but it can also be isolating. Nearly half of unpaid carers report feeling lonely, and three quarters experience stress or anxiety, according to the State of Caring 2025 report.

Through Carers Phone Friends, unpaid carers are matched with a trained volunteer who calls at an agreed time for a friendly, confidential chat. Whether it’s to share worries, swap stories, or simply enjoy a conversation, the calls are designed to fit around the demands of caring.

Carers Oxfordshire is looking for volunteers aged 18 and over to become Phone Friends, offering a friendly ear and regular companionship to carers in their community.

Juliet Cocks, Head of Service at Carers Oxfordshire said: “Unpaid carers play such a vital role in our communities, yet all too often they put their own wellbeing last. Carers Phone Friends is about reminding them that they’re not alone — that someone cares about them too.

“As we launch this new service, we’re now looking for volunteers across Oxfordshire to join us and offer carers a friendly voice, regular companionship and a reminder that they’re not alone.”

Laura Spillane, Project Worker for Carers Phone Friends, added: “I’ve seen the difference a regular visit or phone call can make.

“Sometimes, just knowing someone is there to listen can completely change someone’s week. I’m really excited to be part of this new service and to help build a network of support for carers across Oxfordshire.”

Volunteers will receive full training and ongoing support, with flexible opportunities that they can fit around their own schedules.

Carers Oxfordshire is a free service offering information, advice and personalised support to unpaid adult carers (aged 18+) who look after someone living in Oxfordshire.