Carers Phone Friends
Caring for someone you love can be wonderfully rewarding, but it can also feel lonely. Almost half of unpaid carers feel lonely, and three quarters experience stress or anxiety, according to the State of Caring 2025 report.
We can offer a simple lifeline: friendly, regular calls that bring connection, companionship and reassurance to unpaid carers across Oxfordshire.
Could this help you or someone you know?
If you look after a family member or friend, you don’t have to face things alone. We’ll match you with a trained volunteer who’ll ring at an agreed time for a friendly chat — to listen, share, or simply be there. Calls are regular, confidential and there to fit around your caring role.
If you could benefit from a friendly chat, please get in touch on 01295 234 850 or email lauraspillane@carersoxfordshire.org.uk.
You can also ask for a referral from a Carers Adviser or professional, or self-refer using our referral form.
“Margot is my very best friend. I look forward to our weekly chats where I can share my worries, have a laugh, and feel truly supported.” – Sarah, unpaid carer from Didcot
Could you be a Phone Friend?
We’re looking for compassionate, reliable volunteers aged 18+ to support unpaid carers across Oxfordshire.
Help make a real difference to other carers by becoming a telephone befriender and offering regular companionship to someone who also gives to others.
If you have experience caring for someone, you know how much a friendly chat and a listening ear can mean. You could make a real difference to another carer by becoming a telephone befriender and offering regular companionship.
What you’ll do
- Offer a listening ear, peer support and companionship, helping them to feel connected.
- Be matched with an unpaid carer in your community.
- Call them regularly for a friendly chat and support.
What you’ll gain
- The satisfaction of giving back and making a real difference in someone’s life.
- Training and ongoing support from our friendly, experienced team.
- The chance to connect with your community and develop new skills.
Flexible opportunities
We welcome volunteers from all backgrounds and can work around your schedule, whether you can spare a few hours a week or more.
Help us reach more carers
Could you help us reach more carers by making a donation? Every gift, big or small, will help us pair more carers with a friendly voice.
