KEY CONCLUSIONS

This chapter addressed various essential aspects for facilitators who intend to implement the FRIEND Programme in their communities. The key aspects to highlight are:

Facilitators as Catalysts for Connection

FRIEND facilitators – whether professionals or volunteers – play a vital role in promoting meaningful social interaction and combating loneliness in older adults. Their effectiveness stems not from formal qualifications alone but from interpersonal qualities such as empathy, compassion, communication skills, and a genuine belief in the value of friendship and active ageing.

Inclusive and Thoughtful Recruitment

The recruitment of facilitators must be carefully managed to ensure alignment with the programme’s values. Strategies include analysing professional and volunteer backgrounds, offering trial sessions during training, and encouraging peer facilitators to enhance relatability and trust within the group. Diversity in age and background, including older volunteers, enriches the facilitation experience.

Essential Training and Preparation

Completing the official FRIEND facilitator training is crucial. This equips facilitators with knowledge of the programme’s goals, session structure, and facilitation techniques, while also allowing them to experience the programme from a participant’s perspective. Preparation is fundamental to effective facilitation.

Balanced Roles and Group Dynamics

Effective facilitation is rooted in neutrality, guidance (not leadership), and the promotion of shared ownership within the group. Facilitators are responsible for maintaining a supportive, safe, and inclusive environment, managing dynamics with sensitivity, and ensuring respectful and productive engagement throughout the sessions.

Managing Sensitive Situations with Care

Facilitators must be trained to handle emotional disclosures, conflict, or difficult topics with assertiveness, empathy, and active listening. Creating psychological safety, validating emotions, and offering flexible ways to participate (e.g., one-on-one talks, written contributions) are essential to maintaining trust and group cohesion.

Creating a Welcoming, Person-Centred Environment

The tone of the programme should be informal, warm, and reflective of participants lived experiences –not clinical or overly structured. Facilitators must adapt to local cultural contexts and ensure participants feel heard, valued, and empowered, using inclusive materials and language.

Strategic Recruitment and Retention of Older Participants

Recruitment strategies should utilize a combination of community partnerships, healthcare referrals, media outreach, and peer involvement. Retention is supported by relationship-building, personalized attention, accessibility (e.g., transport, timing), and regular social activities that enhance enjoyment and connection.

Integration of Social and Intergenerational ElementsIncorporating opportunities for socialization and intergenerational engagement (such as games, art, or storytelling) strengthens participant motivation and fosters a greater sense of community. These experiences promote mutual understanding and contribute to meaningful, sustained participation.