A new scheme to help churches combat loneliness in their communities was launched by Christian charity Counties in April.
Neighbourhood Chaplains aims to equip and encourage church volunteers to reach out to people in their neighbourhoods through house-to-house work.
It involves volunteers from churches attending three initial training sessions covering areas such as listening skills, pastoral care, safe practice, referral issues and biblical principles. It also includes a toolkit for churches and a branded uniform. Volunteers can choose to be involved in three roles: initial contacts, who knock on doors; befrienders, who then become regular visitors; part of the helping hands team, offering practical help
