Buddies
Our volunteers, known as Buddies, are an essential part of the
Forget Me Not Community Choir.
At the Heart of the Choir
Buddies help create the calm, welcoming environment that allows our members to relax, join in, and feel safe being themselves as well as practical support.
For many people living with dementia, it’s not just the singing that matters — it’s knowing there is someone alongside them who notices, listens, and gently supports them throughout the session. That’s where our Buddies come in.
What Does a Buddy Do?
Buddies help make the choir a calm, welcoming space where members feel supported to take part in their own way. Practical help from providing transport, making drinks, turning pages. A wide mix depending what our members need.
Being a Buddy isn’t about providing care or having all the answers.
Supporting Members
Buddies support members before, during and after each session — offering a warm welcome, sitting alongside them during singing and social time.
Encouraging participation in whatever way feels right, and helping ensure everyone leaves feeling happy and content.
Guidance and Support
All Buddies receive a clear induction and guidance, and are supported by an experienced coordinator at every session.
We are clear about boundaries, safeguarding, and expectations — not to make the role rigid, but because clarity creates safety for both members and volunteers.
Who Can Become a Buddy?
Our Buddies come from all walks of life. Some have experience of dementia through family or work; others simply want to offer their time in a meaningful, community-based way.
You don’t need to be musical.
You don’t need specialist knowledge.
You do need warmth, reliability, and a willingness to learn.
What You’ll Get Out of It
People often tell us that being a Buddy is joyful, grounding, and genuinely rewarding.
You’ll be part of a team, part of a community, and you’ll see the difference your presence makes — week by week.
Many Buddies also value the chance to give something back locally, connect with others, and feel part of something that genuinely matters.
How to Get Involved
If you’d like to explore becoming a Buddy, we’d love to hear from you.
We’ll talk you through the role, answer any questions, and share our induction pack so you can decide whether it feels right for you.