Free Caring Caller Service (Free Companionship/Check-in Calls) @ St John

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beatthatflight on 02/02/2026 - 22:57 stjohn.org.nz (104 clicks)
Last edited 03/02/2026 - 04:30 by 1 other user

Description:
St John offers a completely free service called Caring Caller (Reo Manaaki) for anyone who might be feeling lonely or just needs a friendly voice to talk to.

This is a great resource if you have elderly family members, friends, or neighbours who are isolated, especially if you live far away and can't visit as often as you'd like.

We have a neighbour who utilises this service, and we see the confidence it gives.

What they offer:
* Friendship: Volunteers call regularly (e.g., weekly) to chat about shared interests like gardening, sports, or news.
* Support: A friendly check-in to see how the person is doing.
* Peace of mind: Reassurance for families that their loved one is having social contact.

Cost:
It is free (fully funded by koha/donations and sponsored by ASB).

How to join:
You can request a caller for yourself or a loved one by:
* Filling out the form at the link above.
* Calling 0800 4 CALLER (0800 422 5537).

Note: They are also looking for volunteers if anyone has spare time to become a caller!

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St John New Zealand

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  Stoffel on 03/02/2026 - 09:46

  +3

  This has been going for 20 years plus. My dear Mum was a caring caller for many years and would call up someone every night for a chat. I think they assign a caller to one person so familiar relationships can be formed

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  NovaAlpha on 03/02/2026 - 13:22

  +1

  Has anyone tried this for support before? Like, almost like a counselling-style experience? I realize that professional counsellors are literally meant for this, but they're not always the best. Some counsellors seem detached, which if you imagine doing that as your day job, can be understandable. Some companies offer EAP or RAISE programmes to their employees to get free counselling, but those aren't always the best either, as per above reason.

  I guess what I'm asking is, if someone isn't necessarily seeking professional advice, but rather someone to talk to—someone they can vent to and possibly receive honest, unfiltered feedback, whether or not it falls into a strictly professional framework, would this be ideal? Has anyone tried?

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  rt on 03/02/2026 - 13:41

  +1

  I've never heard of this service and I think I know some people who would really benefit from this exact thing. It sounds brilliant. Thanks for raising awareness about it!
  PS Love your work