High Sheriff recognises Community Befriending volunteers

By
LifeLine Comms Team
on
October 21, 2026

LifeLine Projects was delighted to welcome the High Sheriff of Greater London, Dhruv Patel CBE, to our Community Befriending coffee morning on 18th September 2026, where he joined volunteers, befriendees and staff to celebrate the positive impact of the programme.

The Community Befriending programme provides friendship and connection for adults experiencing loneliness and isolation, bringing people together through one-to-one befriending relationships, group activities and regular community coffee mornings.

The event provided an opportunity to celebrate the friendships, connections and sense of belonging being created through the programme, while recognising the vital role volunteers play in supporting people who may otherwise feel isolated from their community.

During the visit, the High Sheriff presented a special recognition award to Richard Wint, one of the first volunteers to join the programme as a befriender. Richard was recognised for his dedication, compassion and ongoing commitment to supporting people in his local community. Awards were also presented to several other volunteers and befriendees in recognition of their involvement and contribution to the programme.

Find out more about Richard when we spoke with him!

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Community Befriending is built on a simple idea: that friendship has the power to change lives. Every day we see volunteers giving their time, encouragement and kindness to help people feel more connected to their community. We were honoured to welcome the High Sheriff and grateful for the opportunity to recognise Richard and others whose commitment and compassion make such a difference to the lives of those around them.

Nathan Singleton
CEO, LifeLine Projects

It was a pleasure to join LifeLine Projects and to see the warmth and companionship created through the Community Befriending programme. One of the great privileges of serving as High Sheriff of Greater London is recognising those whose contribution is made quietly and without expectation of reward. Richard’s compassion, generosity and commitment exemplify that spirit. Congratulations, Richard, and thank you to the whole LifeLine team for the important work you do.

Dhruv Patel CBE
High Sheriff of Greater London

We would like to thank the High Sheriff for taking the time to visit the programme and congratulate all those who received recognition for their contribution. We look forward to continuing to build friendship, connection and stronger communities through Community Befriending.

Whether you’re looking for a friend, would like to volunteer, or simply want to learn more, we’d love to hear from you. Visit our Community Befriending page to find out how you can get involved.

Learn more about Community Befriending

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