Volunteer Voices: Sue, Joan & a regular telephone call

We’re often asked why people volunteer with us. While we could tell all the reasons, the most compelling voices are those of our volunteers themselves.

For Volunteers’ Week, we’re proud to share another of our Volunteer Voices – real stories, from real people, in their own words, offering a genuine insight into what volunteering with us is really like.

Today it’s Sue’s turn to tell her story with the help of Joan.

Sue volunteers to make telephone regular scheduled phone calls for us to the isolated or vulnerable.

Finding connection through volunteering

“I’ve been volunteering for Communicare for about five and a half years, mainly phoning service users for a 10-minute chat.

“When the Covid lockdown happened, not long after I was widowed, I was feeling quite lonely and isolated myself. Seeing an advert for volunteers to call people came at just the right time. It gave me some structure back in my week, as well as the opportunity to help others.

A simple call makes a big difference

“I now volunteer for two one-hour slots each week and have been speaking to some service users, like Joan, for several years.

“Although I chat to people of all ages, being over 80 myself, I really enjoy speaking to people of a similar age or older. I understand the importance of speaking clearly and taking time, and we often find we have a lot in common. We share memories of our childhoods and how much life has changed over the years.”

Building meaningful friendships

“I phone Joan every Tuesday morning. She always makes a point of being near the phone, ready to answer with a cheerful ‘Hello Sue!’

“When I first started calling her, she was recovering from a fall and a stay in hospital. As she got stronger, she was able to get out for short walks and do a bit of shopping, so she always had plenty to talk about.

“These days, Joan is more housebound, but we still really enjoy our chats. We talk about the weather, family visits and I love hearing about the latest piece of knitting she’s working on.”

Why volunteering matters

“Volunteering has helped me just as much as the people I phone. It’s given me a sense of purpose and connection, and something to look forward to each week.

“I would encourage anyone to consider volunteering. Even a small amount of time can make a big difference – both to others and to yourself.”

How to get involved

If Sue’s story has inspired you and you’d like to make a difference in your community, we’d love to hear from you.

Find out more about volunteering here.

Thank you

Photograph taken with thanks by Tim Kenyon Photography.