OSJCT is celebrating Befrienders Week (1 - 7 November) by highlighting some of our amazing volunteers
(Photograph taken summer 2019.)
Matthew describes his volunteer role as: “being a friend to the residents and a familiar face. I strike up a conversation, listen and talk about anything and everything. I have yet to meet a resident that hasn’t got a fascinating life story to tell.
“I’m company for those that are lonely or just need a helping hand with activities. Sometimes this is in a group or one-to-one. Over time you learn what residents like, such as playing dominos, going for a walk around the garden, or just a good chat over a cup of tea.”
Matthew volunteers every Saturday and has done for the last 18 months. He originally became a volunteer because he wanted to give something back to the local community and he’s never looked back.
“I’ve made some great friendships with both residents and staff, and I genuinely look forward to going in every week. I wish I could go in everyday!
“There are of course times of sadness, but for the most part it is a real joy, and you come away with a sense of achievement knowing that you have made such a difference in somebody’s day. One of the most rewarding memories I have is being able to spend time with a resident that suffered with depression. Lifting his mood, and getting him to engage, laugh and smile.”
OSJCT homes are places of laughter and fun and our volunteers play a huge role in this!
Matthew continued: “There have been many laugh out loud moments during my time as a volunteer. One that comes to mind is when a lady said to me that she would marry me if only she were a bit younger!”
Matthew is hugely popular with both residents and employees. Lyndsay Sard, Home Manager at OSJCT Larkrise cannot speak more highly of him. She said: ““Matt has been a fantastic asset to Larkrise, he comes in with a big smile and plans to make everyone happy, looking at what residents are doing and what they want to do more of.
“Matt isn’t just a volunteer, like all of our volunteers, he’s a member of our team.”
Matthew recently won Volunteer of the Year recognising the tremendous contribution he’s made and continues to make to the Larkrise Team.
Befriending Week takes place 1 - 7 November #befriendingis.