What has gone missing from the week?

Look at the routine, not just the label

Someone may never describe themselves as lonely. They might say the buses are a hassle, they cannot be bothered with the group or there is nothing worth going out for. Sometimes they mean exactly that. Sometimes they would enjoy those things with company.

A change is a reason for a conversation, not proof that somebody needs a service. Ask what they want before making arrangements.

Things worth talking about

• An activity they used to enjoy keeps being postponed.
• Appointments or trips feel difficult because they would be going alone.
• They have people to speak to online but little company in person.
• A move, bereavement or change in work has reduced regular contact.
• A short support programme has ended and a useful routine has stopped.
• Family visits have become mostly practical jobs, leaving little time together.

These situations can affect younger and working-age adults as well as older people. Living alone is not the deciding factor. What matters is whether the person has the company and opportunities they want.

Ask a question they can answer in their own way

Try “Is there somewhere you have wanted to go lately?” or “Would you enjoy having someone come along?” If you have noticed a change, name it without deciding the reason: “You haven't mentioned the group for a while. How are you finding it?”

Give them room to disagree. They may want a different activity, a different time or no visit at all. They may also prefer to speak to Whitegreen themselves.

Match the support to the difficult part

If it is the journey, company from the front door may help. If it is walking into a group, someone who stays with them may matter more than a lift. If they miss conversation, a visit at home can be valuable without an outing attached.

Explore getting out with a companion, company for younger adults or companionship in later life.

When a companion is only part of the answer

An unexpected or concerning change in someone's health or behaviour needs the appropriate professional advice. Companionship can add social contact and practical support, but it does not explain or treat the cause of a change.

If other support is already involved, discuss where visits would fit. With the person's agreement, the relevant people can help plan a useful introduction.

Try a conversation before planning the whole week

Tell us what you have noticed and, most importantly, what the person says they want. We will explain the service and arrange a free meet-and-greet so they can decide how they feel about it.