Betty wins award for helping out others
A tireless volunteer, who has helped run older people’s groups for almost a quarter of a century, has been recognised with a national award.
Betty Carnihan, 77, from Larkhall, was presented with Age Scotland’s Volunteer of the Year award at a virtual ceremony this month.
The gong is sponsored by Solicitors for Older People Scotland, and recognises an outstanding volunteer who has made a difference to older people’s lives.
Betty started volunteering with Larkhall and District Volunteer Group in 1996 and is now their longest-serving volunteer.
She runs lunch clubs, exercise groups, games nights and organises outings.
And Betty also calls members who are on their own as part of their Call Line, picks up people to take them to groups and has helped organise a food collection for local people in need.
During the pandemic, Betty was determined to continue volunteering and reaching out to members. Despite initially shielding at home herself, she stayed in touch with members by phone, offering a friendly ear to those who were on their own.
Betty said: “I was very honoured, very privileged to win this award. When they told me, I was just dumbfounded.
“One of the things I enjoy very much is the Call Line, calling people who are lonely and vulnerable and just having a chat and brightening up their day.”
Volunteer coordinator Ann Nisbet said: “Betty has become so involved with the members.
“She’s dependable, she’s reliable, trustworthy, she’s always happy to help.
“Very seldom do I phone Betty and she says ‘no’. She always goes the extra mile and makes time to make sure all the members who come into the groups get the best experience possible.
“We’re all absolutely delighted that Betty has won this award. She thoroughly deserves it. She’s been volunteering for 23 years without being recognised and now it’s her turn.”
Brian Sloan, Age Scotland’s chief executive, said: “Betty’s work is a true inspiration, and has touched the lives of hundreds of people throughout Lanarkshire and beyond. For almost a quarter of a century, she has worked tirelessly to reach out to those in her community, ensuring that everyone who walks through the door receives a warm welcome.
“Even the pandemic has not stopped her, and she continues to reach out to local people by phone providing a reassuring voice.”