Our history
2002
West Norfolk Befriending was originally started in 2002 as a project. It was set up by West Norfolk Deaf Association, West Norfolk Carers and Age Concern West Norfolk because together they realised that they were coming across many socially isolated older people who would benefit from befriending.
The project became a registered charity with a member from each founding charity continuing to support the work by being a trustee. A part time member of staff was employed who worked with a team of volunteers. At this time West Norfolk Befriending worked across King’s Lynn and the coastal corridor to Hunstanton.
At this time the Mentoring and Befriending Quality Mark was applied for and awarded for the first time. It has been reapplied for several times and a high-quality service maintained ever since.
2009
Pippa May joined WNB as Chief Executive, in 2009. She was the only member of staff for a couple of months. We had secured some funding which allowed us to start working in Downham Market and the surrounding areas.
2012
Originally West Norfolk Befriending was funded by an annual contract with Norfolk County Council to support carers. This contract ended in 2012 and from then on fundraising has been crucial to the survival of the organisation.
2017
From 2017 West Norfolk Befriending has been part of the Lily partnership. This is a unique working partnership helping to reduce isolation and loneliness in West Norfolk.
2019
As a result of the Covid-19 pandemic we developed telephone befriending which has continued to be offered to all clients after lockdowns. Another new service of email befriending was also introduced.
2022
In 2022 we are celebrating our 20th Anniversary. We are proud to support the people and community of West Norfolk. We need your support to ensure the future and survival of our befriending services.