The Courier & Advertiser (Angus and Dundee)
Volunteer’s efforts to make a difference to elderly are rewarded
Event: Dedicated worker has launched several charity support groups throughout Angus
An Angus volunteer’s “restless ambition” to make a difference to the lives of older people has been recognised.
Jean Malcolm, of Brechin, received a special mention at Contact the Elderly’s inaugural “thank you” event at Crieff Hydro.
She was thanked alongside her husband Graham who has supported her endeavours to establish and grow the charity’s presence in the Angus area.
Jean has been responsible for the launch of seven Contact the Elderly groups in more than 10 years.
Most recently, Jean launched a new group in Tealing and is already planning branches in Friockheim and a second group for Laurencekirk.
Jean said: “I am overwhelmed to have received this special mention.
“The work the charity does is so important. I am driven by the desire to make a difference to the lives of these lovely older people.
Jean’s commitment to our charity is outstanding and we are incredibly grateful. MORNA O’MAY OF CONTACT THE ELDERLY
“Imagining what life must be like for them and knowing there are plenty of people who could help them feel better drives me to keep pushing for more volunteers and guests in Angus.”
Morna O’may, head of service for Scotland at Contact the Elderly, said: “Jean’s commitment to our charity is outstanding and we are incredibly grateful for her dedication, drive and determination.
“We asked our volunteers for nominations and we were overwhelmed with the amount of nominations we received for Jean so decided to give her a separate category to truly recognise the difference she has made to the lives of older people in Angus. We had to thank her husband Graham as well who has been a fantastic support in these efforts.
“Jean’s restless ambition to grow our presence means we are confident we will be able to offer the benefits of baking and a blether to plenty more older folk in the region.”
More than 150 of the charity’s 1,400-strong network of volunteers attended the event where they enjoyed an awards ceremony hosted by Morna and acting chief executive Cliff Rich before an afternoon of tea and harp music.
There are Contact the Elderly groups in Forfar, Montrose, Carnoustie, Brechin, Kirriemuir and Laurencekirk.
Having recently celebrated its Golden Jubilee, the organisation focuses solely on relieving the acute loneliness and isolation of older people who live alone, without family, friends or other support networks nearby.
smilne@thecourier.co.uk