The Wren Project is a registered charity which supports people newly diagnosed with autoimmune disease. Through ongoing 1- 1 listening support, the Wren Project helps people at a time of distress, loneliness, and uncertainty to talk about the social and emotional impact of autoimmune disease.
In the UK, 6%, or 4 million people, are known to live with at least one autoimmune condition. There are over 80 identified autoimmune diseases, with incidence rising by 3 - 9% each year.
While the NHS treats the medical - the emotional and psychosocial impact of autoimmune conditions are often overlooked and yet are life-changing as an individual is forced to come to terms with an incurable illness. Research captures the sense of: stress, isolation, strained relationships, and negative coping strategies. 80% of people with autoimmune disease and their families attest to the serious impact autoimmune diseases have on everyday life; 66% of people with autoimmune disease have mental health problems.
The Wren Project trains volunteers in active listening and empathy and pairs each volunteer with two Wrens - users of our service. Through one to one listening sessions, volunteers help Wrens at a time of acute distress and loneliness.
Volunteers complete training in active listening, empathy, emotional resilience, and knowledge of autoimmune diseases. The Wren Project supports volunteers to develop understanding of the effect a diagnosis of autoimmune disease can have on a person’s life.
What volunteering entails: 3 hour commitment each fortnight, to support two Wrens in 1-1 video calls. Through active listening, volunteers create a space in which Wrens can share what they’re going through, feel heard, understood, and less alone.
When: Volunteers join a fixed shift. There is a shift most days of the week, so there is flexibility around other commitments.
Where: All Wren Project takes place over Video call – both training and listening sessions
Volunteer training: next training begins Tuesday 30th November, 5.30 – 7pm, until Tuesday Jan 18th, with a 2 week break over Christmas.
