The idea of a few hours peace and quiet might seem like a nice idea but imagine having no one to talk to, day after day? The loneliness would feel devastating.

Sadly, unbroken silence and loneliness are a reality for thousands of people in Bath and North East Somerset, who go for days and sometimes even weeks without speaking to another soul.

Barbara, 84 was a very successful businesswoman whose voice has been integral to her career.

For someone once so lively and independent, her life now seems in stark contrast. Barbara has had two minor strokes and suffers with arthritis which has left Barbara housebound, living alone in an isolated rural area.

“My voice goes horse as I don’t get to speak to anyone for days. My life is very different now. It is what it is, but I am housebound. I can’t get out.”

Thankfully, Age UK Bath & North East Somersets Befriending service matched Barbara with volunteer Kat, and through visits and phone calls, they have developed a friendship which neither would be without. Barbara said: “She’s a lovely girl. We talk about all sorts and I really enjoy our chats; I look forward to it a lot. It breaks up my week. It is nice to know that someone has discovered me – that people know that I have a brain!”

There are lots of ways to get involved: hold a sponsored silence, give social media a break, cut ties with your mobile phone for the day.

It could be for two hours, twenty four hours or more. It is your challenge!

By taking part, you will be supporting our Befriending Service which creates meaningful friendships by linking up lonely older people and likeminded volunteers with regular visits and phone calls.

We have a long waiting list of older people who desperately need a friend.

Please visit www.ageukbanes.co.uk