Age Concern Southend would not be able to provide the support and services we do without our team of amazing volunteers. Whether it is as a befriender, a driver, an office worker or even just helping at the occasional event, each volunteers contribution is invaluable to our success as a charity and to helping older people in the Southend area.

Over the next few weeks we will be showcasing some of our dedicated volunteers so you can meet the people making a difference and find out what it’s like to volunteer for Age Concern Southend.

Tell us a little bit about yourself:

I am a single lady who took early retirement but even when working I have always done some form of volunteering work. I have many friends and family who I love dearly, I also have two chihuahuas who make my life so happy as they give unconditional love. I now do voluntary work for Age Concern Southend and for SAVS.

How long have you been volunteering for Age Concern Southend?

Just over a year.

What made you decide to volunteer for Age Concern Southend?

I was working at SAVS shop, but sadly it had to close after 5 years. I realised I could not just do nothing as I believe keeping busy is the best for us. So walking past Age Concern one day on impulse I popped in and found out all about it. I loved the idea of joining the team.

What is your volunteering role?

I am a telephone befriender.

What has been your most memorable day volunteering at Age Concern Southend?

I can honestly say everyday at Age Concern is memorable as everything I do is very rewarding. Also working alongside an amazing team who make me feel most welcome.

What would you say to someone who is thinking about volunteering for Age Concern Southend?

I would say to volunteer for such a very important organisation is one of the most fulfilling things to do as you are helping so many lonely elderly people who a simple phone call or visit will enrich their life. So many have no family or are bed bound with only carers to pop in and see them.

So I’ve been doing some training over the past couple of week to work with a voluntary service to help people with Mental health and help them achieve goals they want to do but simply can not due to there mental health preventing them. And I’ve just become one of those voluntary mentors to help people just like me and just like you to get back into a normal routine and get back on that path to recovery. 

I AM SO FUCKIN’ PROUD RIGHT NOW!!!!!!

Okay I shall calm down now but seriously this is such an achievement for myself and will help me so much on my path to recovery go me.