Bid for more volunteers to befriend lonely OAPs

A CHARITY which helps provide friendship and support to isolated elderly people has appealed for more volunteers.

Community Companions links volunteers with elderly people in a bid to battle social isolation.

The group matches up volunteers from all walks of life with older people who live alone or in elderly accommodation.

The charity’s local coordinator Claire Cockburn said: “Just because someone lives in a home for the elderly doesn’t always mean that they have lots of company and companionship.

“The Community Companions project is aimed at adults in Dundee who are either experiencing or have the potential to experience social isolation.

“Each person is matched up to a Community Companion based on personality, hobbies and interest and general living experiences.

“Community Companions befriend people in many ways — for example, visiting them in their own home, accompanying them to social activities or shopping trips, or even a visit to a local café.

“The person receiving the companionship can choose how often they require support and what type of support they require.”

Claire said that the organisation is always looking for volunteers because there are many local people who would benefit from having a companion.

One man who has benefitted from the scheme is David Cameron, 83.

David lives at Rosendael House care home for retired ex-servicemen.

Once a week, he receives a visit from Karen Symaniak and together they go shopping, enjoy a coffee or just sit and chat.

He said: “Although I’m in a home it doesn’t mean that I have regular company.

“I really look forward to Karen’s visits. It’s often the highlight of my week and it’s great getting out and about with Karen.”

Peggy McDonald looks forward to her weekly visit from Barry Fairweather.

She said: “I really enjoy Barry’s visits. We get on so well and he takes me out or helps around the house.

“When you get older, life can be very lonely on your own and it’s lovely to know that you will be getting a visit every week.

“I would be lost without Barry.”