Spotlight On Dudley’s Befriending Service & The Joy It Brings

It’s time to shine a light on all the joy that Dudley Caribbean and Friends Association (DCFA) Befriending Service brings to residents and local elders.

What Is DCFA Befriending Service?

The DCFA Befriending Service has operated from Henry Court in Dudley since it was built – and over the years, has gone from strength to strength in its efforts to help people build connections and reduce isolation.

The Befriending service enables older African Caribbean residents and other local elders to access meals, companionship and wellbeing activities. The organisation has enjoyed a long-standing relationship with Nehemiah, enabling it to provide a range of activities each week to our tenants – activities that help reduce loneliness, improve health and wellbeing, and encourage older people to remain active and connected.

Supporting tenants aged 65+ and living in the Dudley area, the Befriending Service can be accessed by self-referral or by referrals from health and social care professionals.

The service is overseen by Local Project Officer Shirnette Collins, a qualified teacher and social worker, and supported by a dedicated team of 10 trained volunteers, all DBS checked and trained in first aid, safeguarding and supporting older people. Between them, they provide planned activities and ad hoc help where needed, that encourage participation, confidence and community belonging – all delivered in a safe, welcoming environment where tenants feel valued, respected and connected.

DCFA was officially registered as a charity in 1987, although it had been providing support for the local communities long before this date. In 2027, the organisation will celebrate 40 years of officially registered service to the Dudley community. This significant milestone will mark over four decades of commitment, dedication, and positive impact in supporting older people, strengthening community connections, promoting inclusion, and preserving the heritage and experiences of the Caribbean community and wider Dudley population.

Keep your eyes peeled for news of DCFA Befriending Service’s 40^th birthday celebrations!

Weekly Tuesday Sessions & More

Over the past year, weekly Tuesday sessions have taken place at Henry Court. During these sessions, residents have been encouraged to join in a range of activities that include informal coffee mornings, themed social events, exercise classes, games, seasonal celebrations and opportunities for residents to raise local issues in a relaxed and friendly setting.

The weekly visits have helped build trust and familiarity, giving residents a consistent point of contact and making it easier for them to get involved.

By listening to residents and responding to their interests, Shirnette has helped shape activities that feel meaningful, inclusive and relevant to the Henry Court community.

Shirnette says: “Residents have also had the chance to share experiences and celebrate key moments throughout the year. These Tuesday sessions have become more than just activities – they have provided a regular opportunity for connection, conversation, and community spirit.”

In addition to the weekly Tuesday sessions, DCFA Befriending Service also provides ad hoc and tailored support to our tenants when needed. Support services include telephone befriending for tenants who prefer companionship and connection at home, face-to-face visits by trained volunteers, help with appointments or community engagements, and local outings. 

“Looking ahead, the continued engagement at Henry Court will remain an important way to support residents, encourage participation, and ensure tenants’ voices are heard,” concludes Shirnette.

“The success of the past year shows the positive impact that regular, face-to-face community engagement can have in bringing people together and helping residents feel valued and connected.

“We will continue to build on this success and are also excited to plan ways to celebrate DCFA Befriending Service’s 40^th birthday next year – with all the tenants at Henry Court.”