Supporting the lives of those experiencing the effects of isolation and loneliness
Registered Charity 1200790
Friendly Faces of Kent is a dedicated, welcoming and approachable charity, supporting adults experiencing the effects of loneliness and isolation - we believe that by providing our members with friendship, inclusion, encouragement and an arena to be heard, we will be able to make a vast difference to their lives.
We supports adults through a group centred approach, offering a range of innovative and high quality Group sessions, walks and activities to promote and encourage our members to reconnect with their wider community. Delivered by professionals, support workers and volunteers, who together have their own experiences of isolation and loneliness.
Friendly Faces of Kent is not qualified to offer medical or mental health advice. We would urge anyone seeking further support and information to contact one of relevant professional organisations found on our Helpline Page.
Friendly Faces of Kent are proud to support our members in reconnecting, through community-led projects and volunteering opportunities
Meet Our Team
Lesley
CEO and Founder
Driving force behind Friendly Faces of Kent, Lesley began the group in 2017 when she recognised the need to reconnect and find friendship for those suffering Isolation and Loneliness - even more crucial than ever, over the past few years. Working to support our members both physically and remotely her selfless fund raising efforts, allow us to continue to provide inclusive services and activities to all our members free of change. Her determination and unfailing dedication has resulted in us gaining our full charity status, of which we are very proud.
Karon
Friendly Spaces
Co Ordinator
Having joined the Friendly Faces team in Spring 2024 Karon now runs the three monthly groups, in Sheerness, Sittingbourne and Teynham. Within the groups Karon arranges speakers and activities in a welcoming and inclusive atmosphere, while the members enjoy refreshments, chatting and making new friends and connections. She also works at The lighthouse coffee shop baking cakes and volunteers at a Dementia group. Karon regularly accompanies our members on the Friendly Walks, days out and After Dark meals.
Cheryl
Back Office & Admin
Oversees the running of the building and management of the diary at our Wellbeing Hub at Rushenden, Cheryl also helps with funding outcomes, creates our social media content, manages our website and produces a quarterly online and hardcopy newsletter with regular updates for members. She volunteers her craft expertise at our monthly Friendly Spaces with fun and educational activities, and joins us on regular outings and Walk n Talk events in partnership with Carers Stepping Out.
Alisha
Support Worker
Alisha takes time out of her busy life, working as a Practice Nurse, to run our hugely popular Pedometer Challenge, including Friendly Walks for participants, offering a wealth of experience to help get members fitter and more active. As well as keeping our Instagram and Twitter feeds updated, Alisha acts as a Facebook admin and also posts on her weekly Wellbeing Wednesdays to help keep us all motivated, fit and healthy
Rose
Support Worker
Rose is a busy Practice Nurse. We're so grateful that she's chosen to work with us, and is actively involved in our Facebook Group where her Welcome Back Monday is consistently one of our most popular and interactive days. Members chat- and get to know each other better, sharing their interests, hobbies and what's new in their lives. Rose also accompanies our members on our Friendly Walks and outings.
Barry
Volunteer Safeguarding Officer
In charge of keeping our organisation compliant with Safeguarding Legislation Barry keeps records of any complaints or questions that arise. Ensuring that any necessary steps are taken to protect the people that we work with and support. He volunteers to set up and helps run our busy Friendly Space settings. Barry is also keen to promote and raise awareness of our organisations aims and goals within the wider community.
Hina
Volunteer
Michael
Volunteer
Vicki
Volunteer
Laura
Laura, works full time for the railway in London. But she still kindly makes time to head up our Challenge Tuesdays on the Facebook Group. She helps our members with their physical and mental wellbeing, by creating fun and interactive weekly activities and challenges for all. Laura has completed an ultra marathons and enjoys cold water swimming. She has been accepted to compete in the Tokyo marathon in 2025
Volunteer
Ray
Volunteer
Ray, runs our dedicated and popular weekly men's group, Friendly Fellas. He has valuable lived life experience, and a deep understanding of the many issues that affect men's all round wellbeing. With a warm welcome guaranteed, the group continues to grow from strength to strength, due in no small part from Ray's dedication to the group and its members.
Steve
Volunteer
Steve, understands the importance of community and connection, and helps provide a warm welcome to those attending our Friendly Fellas groups, outings and activities. We appreciate the importance of providing a safe space, where men can share their experiences, seek advice and get support from their peers and Steve has been key in this process and in helping build the group..
Mick
Volunteer
Mick, an RHS qualified gardener, is always on hand with lots of gardening help and advice for our green fingered members. Creating regular videos with interactive seasonal projects, and virtual garden tours for those members unable to get out and about. Mick is also a regular volunteer at our Friendly Spaces and on our walks.
Carol
Volunteer
Helen
Volunteer
Bob
Trustee
After a long career as a train driver and working in the Merchant Navy, Bob now enjoys his retirement playing bowls and loves travelling abroad in his camper van. He has a wealth of experience working on numerous committees and also volunteers his time for Carers Stepping Out, both behind the scenes and on regular Walk n Talk events.
Beverley
Trustee
Beverley is the founder of ADHD Awesome, supporting those affected, and their families. She is also a published author. She offers crucial office support and is always on hand with invaluable insight and advice to help our organisation as we move forward.
Lynda
Trustee
Lynda already has a role supporting the health and wellbeing of our members and the wider community, in her role with One You. She believes that a holistic approach is vital for healthier lifestyles. She enjoys keeping fit, family time and particularly time spent with her granddaughter. Lynda is please to be onboard with us, and welcome her role within the organisation.
