31 May 2018

It's easy to give volunteering a go

You are never to old too make new friends. Our Enliven Visiting Volunteers understand this, and the programme is focused on setting up volunteer pairs.

Visiting Volunteers are people who simply enjoy the company of others. They spend time with an older person, providing the friendly companionship that may be needed.

Wendy Coward is one of nearly 40 volunteers involved with this service. She lives in Mosgiel, and has been a Visiting Volunteer for over a decade.

Wendy became a Visiting Volunteer after she retired. Being a Visiting Volunteer has helped to build her confidence when interacting with other people.

The person who Wendy currently visits is in her 90s, but is still as lively as ever. Wendy began visiting when she was living in her own home, and now visits each week in the care home she has moved to in Mosgiel.

“We sit together and have a good yarn every Monday. She’s a real hard case, if you say anything she’ll just come back at you, quick as can be.”

“We’ll try to do the quiz in the newspaper and we’ll read our stars together, or we have a cup of tea and just have a general chat and a laugh.”

“I really enjoy volunteering. I’d say that it’s beneficial to both people involved.”

Wendy recalls a few years ago, when they attended an exercise class held in Mosgiel. Her companion was not able to do everything in the class, but “she gave it all a go, and really enjoyed herself.”

Wendy is quick to suggest, “Give volunteering a go and see if it helps you. There are a lot of people, not just the elderly, who may be lonely and need someone to be there with them. It is a very good service.”

Visiting Volunteers are needed in Dunedin and Mosgiel. Contact Michelle on 03 477 7115 to find out more about becoming a Visiting Volunteer.