Volunteers’ Week 2021 – Adult Befriending Orkney
3 June 2021
We have been so proud of our volunteers, especially during the Covid pandemic. We have many great volunteers (Befrienders) who usually make weekly visits to someone over the age of 60 (Befriendees). When lockdown happened, our volunteers went out of their way to ensure that their Befriendees were doing ok. They have been keeping in touch by telephone or Skype making weekly calls to say hello, check they are ok, and to have a good blether. Befriending volunteers also provide practical support such as getting shopping or picking up prescriptions. We have been lucky to get the go ahead to re-start face to face visits which has been hugely welcomed by both volunteers and Befriendees.
We are very grateful to have such a wonderful and dedicated group of volunteers – without them there would be no Adult Befriending service. The difference they make to other people’s lives is priceless.
One of our volunteers shares their experience of being a befriender below. Inspired to join the befriending team? Give us call on 872897 or email sarah.kelly@vaorkney.org.uk to find out more.
From all of us at the Adult Befriending Team we just want to say a huge thanks to all of our wonderful volunteers!
“Volunteering with ABS during lockdown has been tremendous great experience. It’s been a joy getting to know my lovely Befriendees. They are fine grand folk, and such good fun too!
I believe our Befriendees get much benefit from the regular weekly calls, especially with the restrictions from seeing their families and friends during lockdown. I think too that because it’s something they can rely on that it’s also something they can look forward to.
The folk coordinating ABS are fantastic; so supportive and very approachable. They are extremely dedicated to the service, and between us all I feel we are making a positive difference in their lives; not only theirs but our own as well. For me, Befriending has been one of the most rewarding things I can do.”