Sheffield charity b:friend has been named Orchard Square’s Charity of the Year, marking the start of a 12-month partnership aimed at tackling loneliness and social isolation among older people across the region.
The partnership, which begins this month, will see a range of fundraising and community-focused activities take place at the city centre retail destination. One of the first initiatives will be the introduction of Orchard Square’s new ‘Chatty Bench’, painted in b:friend’s distinctive colours and designed to encourage conversation among visitors.
Featuring the message ‘Have a seat and have a chat’, the bench will act as a visible reminder of the importance of social connection while also providing information for those interested in volunteering or supporting the charity through donations.
Shay Murray, Centre Manager at Orchard Square, said: “We are delighted to welcome b:friend as our Charity of the Year. Their work has such a positive impact in communities across our region and beyond, and as an organisation that places such importance on community, we are proud to support a charity that helps bring people together and tackles loneliness in such a meaningful way.”
Since launching in 2017, b:friend has created more than 3,200 friendships across South Yorkshire, Derbyshire and Nottinghamshire. The charity matches volunteer befrienders with older neighbours for a weekly visit or phone call, helping to build meaningful relationships and reduce feelings of isolation.
Alongside its befriending service, b:friend runs 17 social clubs offering activities ranging from dancing and creative writing to boxing and mocktail-making, helping older people stay active, connected and engaged within their communities.
Colette Bunker, CEO of b:friend, said: “We are incredibly thrilled and grateful for the opportunity to be Orchard Square’s Charity of the Year. Orchard Square is a real community hub in the heart of Sheffield and a perfect fit for us. Together, we can make a huge difference to the lives of older people who may otherwise face loneliness and isolation.”
Also on the horizon is b:friend’s second annual 24-hour Padel-a-thon at Play Padel Sheffield. The fundraising challenge returns in September and is currently seeking the final few corporate sponsors to support the event. Sponsorship packages include on-court branding, media and social coverage, interview opportunities and time on court during the challenge itself. With the headline sponsor already secured and several key sponsors confirmed, the charity is encouraging local businesses to get involved and help make this year’s event another success.
Businesses interested in sponsorship opportunities can contact andrew@letsbfriend.org.uk.
