Hear from Care Home Volunteer Ally

We have a fantastic team of volunteers so take a read of Ally’s experience of being a volunteer befriender

“I had thought about volunteering for a while and when I saw the advert in the Swindon Advertiser this looked like the perfect role for me. The organisation was new to Swindon so it was an opportunity to be part of something that was developing and growing. My mum was a carer and I knew how much older people enjoyed the company of others and to reminisce about their lives. The timing was also right as my children had started University and I was missing them being at home too.”

“I thoroughly enjoy being a volunteer befriender. There is a great deal of support in place for volunteers and a comprehensive recruitment process. You feel part of something bigger not only through Care Home Volunteers but also as you get to know residents and also the staff and managers at the care home.”

“Spending time with the residents is so lovely, after a busy week at work I cannot express the feeling of seeing the residents faces lighting up when they see me, it’s so nice. I gain a great deal of personal satisfaction and I really enjoy this.”

“The visits make a real difference to the residents as they are meeting someone new who brings something else to their lives. I chat with the residents, play dominoes, I have been taught how to play cards and had fun. The residents enjoy reminiscing and spending time with someone from the outside world, who is hearing their stories and experiences for the first time.”

“Since the visiting restrictions of Covid-19 I have continued to be in contact by writing to residents and having a video call with them. There is a lot of support for volunteers in this role. My local Volunteer Coordinator keeps in contact with us and we can have extra support when this is needed. We have regular volunteer meetings where we can share ideas, experience and access other training.”

“I have also had the opportunity to become involved in producing the newsletter and volunteer meetings.”

“During the time I have been volunteering I feel supported and valued by Care Home Volunteers and a trusted part of the care home team.”

“Volunteer befriending is such a rewarding experience that anyone who enjoyed the company of older people could do in their spare time. There is a two way benefit, as a volunteer you gain a great deal from this role, you know that you are making a difference to the residents and that feels really good. My advice to anyone who is thinking about this role is to go for it, I would really encourage other people to apply.”