Are you a Compassionate Neighbour?
A community project called Compassionate Neighbours has launched in Bromley by Bow and Stepney. Compassionate Neighbours are trained local people who offer emotional and social support to people who have a serious long-term illness, or who feel lonely and cut off.
Bromley by Bow Health is working with St Joseph’s Hospice and the Bromley by Bow Centre to run this project.
What is Compassionate Neighbours?
Compassionate Neighbours is a free volunteer befriending scheme.
Trained local volunteers are matched with people in the community who may be feeling lonely. Volunteers offer:
- Friendly conversation
- Regular contact
- Emotional support
- Companionship
The aim is to help people feel more connected and supported.
Compassionate Neighbours will receive free training in March 2026 and are supported through monthly development sessions.
They are DBS (Disclosure and Barring Service) and reference checked so you don’t have to worry.
“Services like this make me feel hopeful for our community.”
Launch
The launch was held at the Bromley by Bow Centre Café on Tuesday 10th February, 2026. Patients, staff and partner organisations attended to find out more about the programme.
The Compassionate Neighbours team from St Joseph’s Hospice joined the event to share experiences and explain how it works.
More than 30 people spoke with the team.
- Five people signed up to become Compassionate Neighbours.
- Six people signed up to be supported as Community Members.
How to find out more
You can email Abdul: a.shaque@nhs.net
You can speak to the team in person at:
Bromley by Bow Centre
Every Tuesday, 17 February to 17 March 2026
The team will also visit:
- Local GP surgeries
- Mosques and churches
- Community and voluntary organisations
If you would like to volunteer or receive support, please come and talk to us.
Creating Healthy Connected Communities Together.