I was a full-time carer for a long time. When that ended during COVID, I experienced loneliness and anxiety—it was just hard to cope. I got some help, and one of the things they suggested was volunteering. I found that ALONE was the one I’d be best suited to.
Volunteering has done more for me than I ever expected. I’m a Telephone Support and Befriending Volunteer, and I’ve also started doing visits. Just knowing you’ve brought a little sunshine into someone’s day—it feels good. You can really sense it, even over the phone.
My very first call? I was at my kitchen table, using the ALONE app. It’s simple—log in, pick a name, and call. That first call was a turning point. I realised straight away this was something good. You’re reaching out to someone who might feel there’s nothing going on in their day. That matters.
In the training, I learned about boundaries, listening, and how to support older people through their challenges. My support coordinator is excellent, always there if I need a chat or advice.
I keep a notepad beside me to write down names and small things they mention. If there’s a concern, I mark it with an asterisk to follow up. Listening to them helps me, too. I wasn’t sociable after COVID, I hardly left the house. But this brought me back to myself.
Older people really value the little things: tea, the fire, the television, and we can learn a lot from that. My first in-person visit was supported by my Coordinator, which made it easier for me and the person I was meeting.
I was alone for a long time, grieving. Volunteering gave me purpose again. It made me realise how much I have, and it helped me put life into perspective.
