Frequently Asked Questions

Anyone aged 18 or over,  living in Dumfries and Galloway and who feels isolated for whatever reason and who does not have regular social contact with anyone else.

A Listening Ear works throughout the whole of Dumfries and Galloway.

Yes. We raise money from a range of sources including charitable funders in order to make our services free of charge to our service users.

After receiving a self-referral or referral from an agency, we have an assessment conversation to get to know the person and ensure that ALE is the right service for them. When we accept a volunteer application, we support the new volunteer through induction, training and other necessary processes, such a PVG check.

We then match service users with individual befrienders and/or invite them to  social meetings. Individual befriending can be done by phone, online or in person. Social meetings are held in local cafés or hired venues.

Yes. Anyone can make a referral for someone they are concerned about such as a neighbour, friend or family member, or patient.

Yes. If you feel isolated and have no regular social contact with anyone, then we would be very pleased to hear from you.

Yes, provided you are aged 16 or over and live in Dumfries and Galloway. One of our Volunteer Co-ordinators will contact you to discuss the volunteering opportunities and training requirements, which could involve a Disclosure Scotland check.

You don't need any formal qualifications. We ask for kindess, interest in people, willingness to  work with us to ensure that we provide a high-quality service - and a chatty nature!