Think of being an AIBŌ Buddy as being a grandchild to someone who isn’t your grandparent.It’s anything you’d do with a grandparent - chatting, helping with tech, running a few errands, grabbing a coffee, going for a walk, or visiting somewhere fun together. Just spending time and building a real connection.

Someone kind, intuitive, open, and a good communicator. And of course, someone who loves listening to a great story. AIBŌ is all about intergenerational connection - learning from someone wiser while also bringing your own experiences, humour, and life into the mix.

No, any activity you do together is covered by the family/older adult that you are matched with. We don’t want money to be the thing that stops a Buddy from suggesting something fun, so any activities, outings, or meals are always included in the weekly spending cap.

The weekly spending cap is the maximum amount you can spend each week on activities, food, or outings for you and your older Buddy, and it’s set by their family (or by the older adult themselves).

‍For example:

‍If the cap is £25 and you want to go to the cinema — and both tickets together cost under £25 - you can go ahead, enjoy it, and simply log the expense. No need to check in first.

If the outing would go over £25, then you just message the family for approval before booking.It’s there to keep things simple, avoid awkward money moments, and give you freedom to plan nice things together while the family stays in control of the budget.

Very! AIBŌ is designed to fit around your schedule. If the older adult needs specific days or times, you’ll always be told before you’re matched so you can decide if it works for you.

Otherwise, you and the family can organise visits however suits everyone. Some Buddies stick to the same time weekly; others arrange it more flexibly - as long as communication is clear.

Because Buddies are self-employed, you manage your own schedule, communicate directly with the family, and log the hours you visit.

No! Although lots of our Buddies are students (as the majority are looking for part-time, flexible work alongside studying) lots are graduates, creatives, people with full-time jobs, freelancers, or even on a gap year! We just make it so that Buddies have to be aged 18–30, as AIBŌ is all about intergenerational connection.

Yes! Most older people who use AIBŌ look for around 2-5 hours a week of companionship & therefore, even if you have a full-time job, there is an opportunity to help someone out when you do have free time. Just specify if you have specific days/times when you are available.

Yes. Buddies are self-employed, which means flexible hours, no minimum commitments, and you log your own income for tax. If you need any help with this, just message us!

Yes, all Buddies will require a DBS check before meeting up with any potential matches (families and the older person that you might be matched with).

We also require an identity check (Passport or ID), University or College ID (if you enrolled at college or University) and we will require that you join a quick video call so we can meet you face-to-face (don’t worry, this is very informal, but just so we get to know you & see if you have any questions!).

Yes - you can always reach out to us if you have any questions or concerns about anything. We are here to help!

Not always - most people using AIBŌ do live independently still, but some live in care settings and want that extra layer of genuine companionship - someone young, friendly, and external to their home, like a grandchild popping in.

You’ll always know someone’s living situation before agreeing to visits, and we only match you with people whose needs fit safely within what a Buddy can offer.

Depending on the family’s payment preferences, you’ll be paid weekly or monthly.

You’ll send an invoice (template provided!) with your hours and any expenses, and we'll pay you directly into your bank account.