Cyrenians OPAL

Cyrenians OPAL (Opportunities for Active Lives) operates across West Lothian and the Scottish Borders and aims to support people aged 60+ by creating and enriching communities which empower all to remain independent, living at home and socially connected. The service is delivered by a team of dedicated, trained volunteers who offer encouragement, companionship and support to engage in social, leisure and community activities.

Our groups are designed to bring people together, foster friendships, have fun and to get people involved in their local community. It is known that social connections are essential for health and well-being at all ages and may be especially important for promoting health in later life.

Our One-to-One service (West Lothian only) is a time-limited, confidence-building service where clients are matched with a volunteer for a period of typically 6 – 9 months. In addition we can offer telephone befriending (West Lothian and Scottish Borders) for people unable to get out who would like a weekly chat. To ensure the best support, we match clients with like-minded volunteers who share common interests. The service supports clients in progressing towards a specific personal goal through:
• Visits at home
• Friendly chats on the phone
• Short local outings to shops or a cafe
• Confidence-building walks
• Attending local community groups
• Building confidence in using a digital device

Information for volunteers

Cyrenians OPAL service is delivered by a dedicated team of volunteers, who are vital to ensuring we continue our services successfully. We’re always looking for more volunteers to join us!
Our volunteers give their valuable time to our clients and do this in a variety of ways including:
• Encouraging them to go for a walk
• Accompanying them to local groups
• Making weekly friendship telephone calls
• Listening and understanding
• Helping to make small changes that make a big difference
• Helping at local OPAL groups with activities, tea and coffee
• Leading OPAL groups Volunteer Driving
• Building confidence in using digital devices