Wendy’s
Sightline Story
I’ve just completed my two-year volunteering anniversary with Sightline and it’s flown by. At the time I was looking for some voluntary work and I saw a post on Facebook looking to recruit volunteers to undertake telephone befriending calls.
It appealed to me because my career centred around social care and I was keen to support older people now I am retired. My best friend from the age of 17 is totally blind and whilst I am not visually impaired myself, I have supported her through her adult life so feel I can offer empathy to others who are sight impaired. Plus, the fact I could choose when and where I undertake the calls was brilliant; it’s such a flexible role.
I currently speak with three very lonely older ladies. We chat about all sorts of things, mainly exchanging conversations about our families. One of my ladies tells me she can discuss things with me that she doesn’t feel she could share with her family. I find that a huge privilege that she finds me such a confidant; I help in any way I can.
“Another lady says she doesn’t mind so much living on her own at home, it’s the loneliness and feelings of no-one caring that affect her. She tells me our calls boost her mood, and she looks forward to us speaking each week.”
One of my favourite befriending memories so far is encouraging one of my befriendees to venture out of her house. Millie lost her confidence after losing her sight and used to enjoy regular exercise. As time went on and weeks turned into months with our calls, she finally gained the confidence to go out with her cane, catch a bus and get to her local gym.
Honestly, I couldn’t have been prouder or more pleased for Millie. Getting to the gym is now a weekly part of her routine and she told me our calls have helped build her confidence to get out and about.
(Names have been changed to protect identities).
If you would benefit from a telephone befriending relationship like Marge, we are ready for your call.
Call 0800 587 2252 or email us at info@sightline.org.uk to find out more.
To find out more, please contact us:
(*0800 numbers are free to call from BT landlines and most mobile networks)
