Chris shares his story about volunteering with Care Network. Why he got involved, the important role he plays, and the difference it has made to his life.
“I first got involved in the Care Network because my family was always focussed on caring about people, starting with my mother who was a nurse and I’ve always wanted took after people myself. I moved to Cambridgeshire in 2019 after my wife passed away and I saw an advert for Care Network, who were looking for Check and Chat volunteers. This is a job that involves calling vulnerable people who need contact with others and may have varied problems.
“I really enjoyed it and found it rewarding. It is the variety of the clients that’s interesting. They all have different needs and wants, and I’ve dealt with problems as diverse as not leaving the house to simple dehydration. The role is to befriend them and find out what their problems are. If I can, I’ll try to help and I always have the back-up of Care Network who can use Social Services and other networks to help people.
“As an older person I can bring my years of experience to help people and can refer them if they needed help. Befriending them is part of it and winning over their trust pays dividends – you couldn’t do it otherwise.
“As a man who lives on my own and can suffer from loneliness, it’s a great boost for me to have contact with other people and gain the satisfaction of helping people with their problems. I think it is fantastic service that Care Network provide – it’s all about trying to help people have a better quality of life.
“I became a Trusted Friend in 2022 which means that I can visit clients in their homes, take them for walks or take them to places like the library. The people vary from those that have disabilities, suffer from anxiety or have other emotional needs. Again, this is very rewarding work. One lady, who hadn’t been out of her house for months improved hugely after my contact with her. She now gets out and about, catches busses and does her own shopping. I felt over the moon when I knew I could help her that much.
“I’ve also been involved in the fund-raising side of things. I helped staff our stall at the Northstowe Run and provided a lot of arts and crafts for the stall though my woodworking. I’ve been making 3D art made from wood with my desk-mounted electric saw and have been selling my hand-painted butterflies, ladybirds and lizards with money going to charity. As an arthritis sufferer, I find the physical manipulation is good for my hands. It is pastime I developed during my time of isolation during the Covid pandemic.
“It is wonderful to meet so many people and being part of the Care Network been a positive part of my life. If you’re wondering whether you should get involved or not, please contact them. If you enjoy talking to people and want to help, you can make a difference. At 83 years-old it feels great to be involved and helping people.”
To find out more about volunteering with Care Network or to apply, head over to our volunteering page or contact us to arrange an informal chat by emailing volunteering@care-network.org.uk or phoning 01954 211919.
Happy Volunteers Week to all our incredible teams making a difference for local people and communities!
