Ending Support
All befriending relationships come to an end eventually. How we handle endings matters — both for the service user and for you.
Planned Endings
These happen when there is an agreed reason for the relationship to end, such as:
- The service user no longer needs befriending support
- The service user is moving to a new area or into a care setting
- You are leaving the project (moving, change of circumstances)
- The agreed support period has been completed
Your coordinator will help you plan the ending, including a final visit to say goodbye if appropriate.
Unplanned Endings
Sometimes endings happen unexpectedly:
- A service user passes away
- A service user's health deteriorates suddenly
- A safeguarding issue arises that requires the match to end
- A volunteer needs to stop immediately due to personal reasons
In these cases, your coordinator will support you through the process and ensure appropriate follow-up.
Managing Your Emotions
It's completely natural to feel sad, upset, or even relieved when a befriending relationship ends. You've invested time and care in another person — those feelings are valid.
- Talk to your coordinator about how you're feeling
- Attend a debrief session if offered
- Reach out to the peer support group
- Be kind to yourself — it's okay to need time to process
Remember
Even if a relationship ends, the time you spent with someone mattered. You made a difference — and that doesn't go away.