However much time you have to give, it’s worth it – #NewYearNewUs
Together Co is a loneliness charity that creates connections to change lives in Brighton and Hove. They have over 400 volunteers who support their befriending and social prescribing schemes for those experiencing isolation and loneliness in the city. Here’s what they told us about the benefits of volunteering.
“Even an hour a week of friendliness can make a huge difference.”
Volunteering can nurture a sense of belonging
Volunteering offers the chance to meet new people. Face to face work such as befriending, or helping out at a community centre, or foodbank is a great way to strike up conversation. Louise, one of our Social Prescribing volunteers says, “I love that I get to help people out and go beyond my own personal issues. It’s so important to connect.”
It’s a chance to make new friends
“The benefits of helping others can last long after the act itself, both for you and them. This in turn can improve our self-esteem” said a report by the Mental Health Foundation.
Our volunteers tell us that it’s a chance to meet people that they might not meet in their daily lives. Dan, one of our befriending volunteers says, “Visiting Rob, I get to see a different perspective on life. We talk about his family, his life and play dominoes. We’re great friends.”
“The benefits of helping others can last long after the act itself, both for you and them.”
Volunteering creates real change
However much time you have to give, it’s worth it. Even volunteering for just an hour a week can make a big impact. Linda, who lives with a disability, finds it hard to get out. She says “My befriending volunteer, Becky, is great. She is the only personal I see socially. Even an hour a week of friendliness can make a huge difference to my life.”
Halima and Leila’s Story
Halima is one of Together Co’s Befriending Volunteers. She regularly visits Leila, who has a disability which restricts her ability to get out. It’s a friendship that means the world to both of them.
Halima – Volunteer
“Volunteering teaches you lots of things and keeps you busy – I’m a full-time mum, so when I’m stuck at home I think too much.
Sometimes I feel sad, but visiting Leila makes me happy – talking to her is my medicine. When I need help, Leila gives me ideas and advice. She’s easy to talk to, and even helps me practice English.”
“Everybody deserves a Halima.”
Leila – Member
“There are lots of obstacles that stop me going outside. Access for a disabled person is difficult in Brighton, and steep roads can make me feel unsafe in my wheelchair. Halima brings me a lot of joy and makes me feel worthwhile, she connects me to the outside world and I feel included in her life too. No matter how ill or sad she feels, Halima always pops in to say hi. Everybody deserves a Halima.”
Find out more about volunteering with Together Co across the UK and in Brighton & Hove.
#NewYearNewUs