“A Lifeline of Friendship”: How a few hours a Week Changed an Older persons Life

At Age UK Sheffield, we see every day how powerful meaningful connection can be.

Cyril, 92, has lived a rich and full life in Sheffield. From serving in the Army at 18 to running successful clothing shops with his wife, raising a family, and enjoying hobbies like golf, cricket and model making - his life has been full of activity, purpose and community.

But in later years, things changed.

After losing his wife and experiencing serious health challenges, including a stroke and a broken leg, Cyril found himself increasingly isolated. With a small family, reduced mobility and fewer opportunities to get out, days would pass without seeing anyone.

Cyril’s experience reflects what many older people face. Age UK defines loneliness as the feeling we experience when the relationships we have don’t match the ones we need. Life events such as bereavement, illness and reduced mobility, all part of Cyril’s story, are known to increase the risk of loneliness in later life.

Without the right support, this can become persistent. Research shows that chronic loneliness can create a downward spiral, reducing confidence, independence and the ability to seek help. It is also recognised as a growing public health issue, linked to both mental and physical health challenges,  including an increased risk of depression, anxiety, and even conditions such as dementia and heart disease.

That’s when Cyril was referred to Age UK Sheffield.

Through our Steel City Friends - befriending service, Cyril was matched with volunteer Steve - someone who shared his interests and life experiences. This personalised approach is key. Research shows that tackling loneliness isn’t just about increasing social contact, but about building meaningful, trusted relationships.

Now, Steve visits Cyril every week.

They talk about Sheffield, sport, and Cyril’s life story. They laugh, share memories, and even practice gentle exercises together. What started as a simple introduction has grown into a genuine friendship.

The difference has been life-changing.

• Loneliness is linked to a 25% increased risk of dementia in older people

Cyril is now more confident, more independent, and even going out to the shops again. He has something to look forward to each week - and someone to share it with.

He describes Steve’s visits as a “lifeline.”

Cyril’s story shows how small, consistent support can make a big difference. Just one meaningful connection can help rebuild confidence, improve wellbeing, and prevent loneliness from becoming more severe.

Could you be that lifeline for someone else?

• People aged 50+ are 5.2 times more likely to feel lonely if they are widowed
• Loneliness is both a cause and consequence of poor mental health

Right now, many older people in Sheffield are experiencing loneliness and isolation - often triggered by life changes like bereavement, ill health or reduced mobility.

Through Steel City Friends - befriending services, we match volunteers with older people to build meaningful connections that improve wellbeing and independence.

And it only takes 30 minutes a week.

• A friendly phone call, or
• A longer face-to-face visit

That small amount of time can make a life-changing difference. If you’d like to support an older person in Sheffield, we’d love to hear from you.

Volunteer here 

Together, we can ensure no one feels alone.