Companionship for Older Adults

Older people can be medically stable and still struggle with loneliness, low confidence, or lack of routine. In many cases, what is needed is not care, but consistent human connection.

GoodCompany provides companionship only for older adults who are largely independent and do not require care or medical support.

What GoodCompany does

GoodCompany offers regular, one-to-one companionship visits with carefully matched, DBS-checked younger companions.

Visits are centred on:

  • Conversation and shared interests
  • Gentle social activities such as walking, games, or reading
  • Familiarity and routine through seeing the same companion consistently

This is a non-clinical, non-care service.

What GoodCompany does not do

GoodCompany is not a care provider.

Companions do not:

  • Provide personal or intimate care
  • Assist with washing, dressing, toileting, or feeding
  • Manage or prompt medication
  • Provide medical, nursing, or therapeutic support
  • Supervise safety or decision-making

If an individual requires care or clinical oversight, GoodCompany is not appropriate.

You can read more about how we keep people safe here.

Who this service is for

This service may be suitable for older adults who:

  • Are experiencing loneliness or social isolation
  • Have reduced confidence leaving the home alone
  • Would benefit from routine and familiar social contact
  • Do not meet thresholds for care, or are in early-stage need

Families usually make contact directly, often after signposting from community or health services.

Safeguarding and boundaries

  • All companions are DBS-checked
  • Clear boundaries are in place at all times
  • Visits are time-limited and companionship-only
  • No personal, medical, or financial involvement
  • No contact outside agreed visits

These boundaries are designed to protect older adults, families, and companions.

Referrals and signposting

GoodCompany does not accept formal or clinical referrals.

If appropriate, NHS and community staff are welcome to:

  • Share our website with individuals or their families
  • Display our leaflet in waiting rooms or community spaces

Suitability is checked directly with the family before any visits begin.

Important clarification

GoodCompany is an independent companionship service.

We are not part of the NHS and do not replace health, care, or social services.