“You Could Be the Only Friendly Voice Someone Hears” — Bill’s Story as a Befriending Volunteer
When Bill retired just before Christmas and moved to Hastings, he suddenly found himself with more time on his hands.
Keen to get involved in his new community, he popped into the local volunteer centre to see what opportunities were available.
“I walked in and asked what was going,” he recalls. “Age UK East Sussex’s information was really clear - I applied online without knowing too much about how it worked, but I liked the idea straight away.”
Making Connections That Matter
Bill has now been volunteering with Age UK East Sussex’s Befriending service since the start of the year. He speaks for a few hours a week with his client, - offering a friendly voice and a listening ear.
“Loneliness can have such a big impact on mental health,” Bill explains.
“I think men in particular can struggle to talk about how they’re feeling, and sometimes they just need another man to chat to. I wanted to help with that.”
For Bill, befriending fits easily into his week and feels like time well spent.
“It’s not hugely demanding time-wise, but it’s hugely worthwhile,” he says. “Both of my clients have been very different people, and it’s fascinating to think about how you adapt to different personalities and attitudes to life.”
Listening, Not Advising
Bill brings empathy and communication skills from his former career, but he’s also learned new ones.
“There are some boundaries - you’re not there to give advice or fix things,” he says. “You’re a friendly, understanding listener. Sometimes that’s exactly what someone needs.”
He’s found that the role can be both rewarding and challenging. “My current client is 88 and feels a bit disillusioned about life. It’s important to measure what you say and be careful with how you respond. You’re there to help, but you’re also testing your own ability to connect in the right way.”
Volunteer With Us
Find out more about becoming a Befriending Volunteer
Rewarding Moments
Despite the challenges, Bill finds befriending uplifting.
“It’s fascinating - you’re there for a purpose, but you also get something back yourself,” he says. “It can be a challenge, but it’s hugely rewarding. And there are moments when you laugh out loud - it can be fun as well as meaningful.”
Why Bill Recommends Volunteering
To anyone considering becoming a volunteer, Bill’s message is simple:
“It is worthwhile - you are making a difference, even if sometimes you wonder whether you are. You could be the only friendly voice that person speaks to - don’t underestimate how important you can be.”
He also highlights how volunteering helps you grow:
“It improves your own communication skills - you’re interacting with people you might never have met otherwise. And it can bring some real laughter into your day.”
Could You Make That Call?
If, like Bill, you want to make a difference in your community, why not consider joining our Befriending team? A few hours a week can make a world of difference to someone’s life - and perhaps to yours, too.