Finsbury and Clerkenwell Volunteers (FCV Dorcas) has been supporting older and vulnerable people in Islington since 1971. We exist to reduce isolation and improve quality of life for people experiencing loneliness due to age, disability, or personal circumstances. We do this by recruiting, training, and supporting volunteers who provide practical help and genuine human connection.

Our work is grounded in one simple belief:

No one should feel forgotten in their own community.

We support elderly people in Islington by reducing isolation and helping them stay connected to their community. We do this by:

 Connecting elderly residents with social activities such as Lunch Club, Art
Club, and group outings
 Offering regular befriending phone calls to provide conversation, reassurance,
and ongoing support
 Providing one-to-one befriending through home visits
Our aims
 Reduce social isolation and improve mental wellbeing
 Help people live independently for as long as possible
 Support clients to maintain dignity, confidence, and a positive sense of wellbeing

In 2015, the Dorcas Befriending Project merged with FCV, allowing us to expand our reach across both South and Central Islington. We work closely with local businesses and value these partnerships deeply. Over the years, we have been supported by organisations including John Lewis (Oxford Street), AHMM, Securys, MUFG, and Universal McCann. These relationships help us strengthen our services and stay rooted in the local community.

At a time of ongoing public spending cuts, our services are more important than ever. In many cases, the support we provide helps delay or prevent the need for statutoryintervention.