Margaret's story: Finding confidence again
Published on 28 July 2026 02:15 PM
When Margaret first had contact with Age UK East Sussex, life had become much smaller than it once was.
At only 61, she was adjusting to life after the loss of her husband. Everyday tasks that had once felt routine suddenly seemed overwhelming, and without someone to share them with, her confidence had faded. She spent much of her time alone and often felt isolated.
That's when one of our Befriending Connections volunteers came alongside her.
Together, they began taking small steps. They visited Margaret's local corner shop, where she gradually built the confidence to ask for help with the items she couldn't find and make friends with the staff. Today, she happily makes the journey on her own.
Her volunteer also introduced her to a local gentle exercise class at the Isabel Blackman Centre in Hastings, which led to friends inviting her to the craft afternoon there where Margaret rediscovered her love of crochet and knitting. What had once been a forgotten hobby has become part of her daily life again, filling her evenings with purpose and enjoyment.
Knowing how important it was to build new connections, the volunteer also helped Margaret join a local lunch club with transport provided. It's given her something to look forward to each week and helped her feel part of her community once again.
Looking back on the difference befriending has made, Margaret said:
"Since I have been befriended, I am far more relaxed and able to cope with most things. I look forward to visits and calls. She seems to know exactly what I need to make my day very happy. She is very kind and understanding, and a joy to see and be in the company of."
Margaret's story is a reminder that rebuilding confidence doesn't always happen through one big moment. Sometimes it's a friendly face, a shared conversation, a walk to the local shop, or rediscovering a hobby that brings joy again. Those small steps can make a remarkable difference.