Sir, in these uncertain times, the NHS has faced immense pressure. In response, many of us have been upskilled and redeployed to unfamiliar clinical settings in this unique fight against COVID-19. However, those awaiting redeployment, those self-isolating vor shielded members who cannot work clinically due to underlying health conditions, have a very valuable skill set. We are strong communicators and share an instinctive compassion for our communities. We also carry a moral duty of care for the public and have received training in safeguarding.

These qualities are ideally suited to befriending. Befriending offers supportive, reliable relationships to individuals who are lonely or socially isolated. Maintaining our mental health and wellbeing is so important during this time of social distancing. As we know well, we all need other people, but not everyone has someone. Befriending during COVID-19 involves contacting service users at an arranged time and chatting, listening and ensuring they are coping well. Instead of providing our usual check-ups, we could be checking in. We could be giving our time to others, arguably the most valuable of all assets.

Charities offering befriending services have fast track online modules to provide immediate training. As healthcare professionals we all have Disclosure and Barring Certificates already, which further accelerates our application. Diane Claridge from Befriending Networks believes that charities would be very grateful for any support our profession can offer. She recommends visiting www.befriending.co.uk, searching the directory for local charities and contacting them directly to get involved. Examples of charities that support befriending include Age UK, Independent Age, Royal Voluntary Service (RVS) and Re-engage (formerly Contact the Elderly).

Oyovwe Kigho is the founder of the Widows Empowerment Trust. Oyovwe has recently reported a huge increase in the number of vulnerable widows seeking the support of her charity. We are befrienders with the Widows Empowerment Trust and have completed the online training. Providing this service is incredibly rewarding. So, in a time when negativity and fear are in the air, let us remember the positivity and support we can bring to others.