Crisis Support & Befriending
What is crisis support ?
At KCU Ltd, crisis support recognises that people can find themselves unable to cope for many different reasons—whether due to financial hardship, sudden life changes, poor health, debt, housing issues, or social isolation. Our response combines practical help with personal, relational support.
We provide crisis assistance through essential items such as emergency food, household goods, and furniture where needed, helping to stabilise immediate situations. Alongside this, we offer one-to-one support delivered by trained staff and volunteers, creating a safe and confidential space where individuals can talk through their circumstances and explore next steps.
At KCU, our support is provided to ensure that those in crisis can access timely help without additional barriers. Through mentoring style guidance, we walk alongside individuals as they focus on reducing the barriers they face, providing support and advocacy while helping them to build confidence, improve resilience, and connect into wider services across our network of partners where appropriate.
What is befriending ?
Loneliness and isolation can affect people of all ages, though it is particularly common among older members of our community. Prolonged isolation can significantly impact wellbeing, confidence, and mental health.
KCU recognises the importance of meaningful human connection. Our Mentoring/Befriending Service (1:1 support held at KCU), matches trained volunteers with individuals who would benefit from regular contact and personalised support. Through consistent engagement, encouragement, and relationship-building, volunteers provide companionship alongside mentoring support and advocacy, walking alongside individuals as they work to reduce barriers, build confidence, develop independence, and improve their ability to manage day-to-day challenges.
Sometimes, a small but regular amount of positive human interaction can make a significant difference, helping individuals feel valued, connected, and better able to cope with everyday life
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