OUR CHARITY
Combating loneliness and isolation in Shropshire
Feed the Birds is a Shropshire-based befriending charity that aims to reach those experiencing loneliness, social and self-isolation through the simple act of feeding the birds. We DBS check, train and support volunteers to undertake weekly home visits, which includes setting up a bird feeder in a garden or window. The scheme provides vital social contact in addition to the benefits that simple engagement with nature can provide.
- Befriending
- Home visits
- Trusted volunteers
- Nature’s benefits
- Reduce loneliness
Find out more about our background.
Volunteers In 2024
People we have helped
Volunteer hours p.a
Why we need Feed the Birds?
- Over 25% of the population are now aged over 65 and the proportion is growing. Increasingly many elderly people experience loneliness or isolation if, for whatever reason, they are unable to get out.
- Isolation is not restricted to the elderly. One in four adults experience social isolation at some point in their lives and would benefit from seeing a friendly face.
- Loneliness is considered to be as damaging to our health as smoking 15 cigarettes a day and equally as damaging as obesity.
- Feed the Birds offer a dual benefit of bringing the calming influence of nature back to people experiencing isolation, whilst providing a social connection through our trained volunteers.
Dual benefits of nature and social contact
It’s a simple concept with far-reaching significance; we reach the loneliest and most socially or self-isolated people through the simple activity of bird feeding. Feed the Birds offers a dual benefit of bringing the calming influence of nature back to people experiencing isolation, whilst providing a social connection through our trained volunteers.
How it works
We aim to match every referral with a suitable volunteer. Also see our refer page.
Client Referral
Match Volunteer
Set up bird feeder
Weekly Visits
