A service built from personal experience — and a belief that no one should feel alone.

Hi, I'm Isabel. I started New Friends because I know first-hand what it feels like to watch someone you love become isolated — and how much a little regular company can change everything.

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When my dad began to need more support in later life, I saw how quickly loneliness could creep in. It wasn't a care need — he was managing well at home. What he needed was someone to talk to. Someone to go for a walk with, or share a cup of tea. Someone consistent, local, and genuinely interested in him as a person.

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What struck me most was how much it mattered that his companion had something in common with him. When he was matched with someone who shared his interests, the visits came alive. They had things to talk about, things to laugh about. It wasn't just time filled — it was time genuinely enjoyed.

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He also needed to feel like himself. He knew he needed the company, but he didn't want to be made to feel old, or diminished, or like a person to be managed. He wanted to be treated as who he was — a person with a history, opinions, and a good sense of humour. That distinction matters enormously, and it shapes everything about how New Friends works.

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"He didn't need care. He needed connection — with someone who actually got him."

 

Finding that kind of support — warm, non-clinical, built around shared interests and real conversation — was harder than it should have been. So I decided to create it.

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I launched New Friends in Richmond Upon Thames because this is my community. I know these streets, these parks, these cafés. And I know there are older residents here who would flourish with a regular, friendly face — and local people who would love meaningful, flexible work close to home.

 

Every companion we work with is DBS-checked, carefully matched, and fully insured. We don't provide personal care — that's not what we are. We provide something different: genuine human connection, on a consistent and unhurried basis. And we match on personality and shared interests, because that's what makes a visit feel like a pleasure rather than a service.

 

What we believe: 
- Dignity first: Every visit should feel natural and uplifting — never clinical or patronising.
- Shared interests matter: We match on personality and common ground — because great conversation starts there.
- Local and personal: We're not a national agency. We're your neighbours — and that's exactly the point.
- No rushing: Every visit is at least 3 hours. Companionship can't be hurried.

 

If you'd like to chat — whether you're a family exploring options for a loved one, or someone interested in becoming a companion — I'd genuinely love to hear from you. You can reach me directly at newfriendscompanionship@gmail.com or on 07947 545757.

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Isabel

Founder, New Friends Companionship · Richmond Upon Thames

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