‘I feel great thanks to volunteering’

A West Lothian woman has spoken of finding new purpose after embarking on a new volunteering role.

Joyce (64) also made new friends by volunteering with OPAL (Older People Active Lives).

The project is run by the Cyrenians charity to help older people who feel lonely or isolated.

Joyce said she’s never looked back since getting in touch with the charity three years ago.

She explained: “I returned from living overseas with the dawning realization that I was in danger of becoming quite lonely and isolated.

“But I have family and friends, I am active and healthy. How much worse it must be for those who have served our communities and now find themselves, stuck in the house all day with no one to speak to and no social interaction.

“I was first attracted to Cyrenians at an information stand in Tesco and arranged to have information sent out.

“Shortly after an informal interview and the filling in of a few forms, I was helping at a fortnightly social group.

“We have a chat, a cup of tea, sometimes a speaker or entertainment, a quiz and before we know it, it’s time to go home.

“I know that my passengers always seem more alert and talkative on the way home and for myself, I feel great afterwards.”

There are a number of clubs and groups run by the Cyrenians around West Lothian.

In Blackburn the Buddies Activity Group meets on Mondays from 10am to 12pm at Blackburn Partnership Centre while Craigengar Park Activity Group in Craigshill also meets on Mondays from 1.30pm to 3.30pm.

In Bathgate an activity group meets at Rosemount Gardens on Tuesdays from 2pm to 4pm and Cunnigar House Activity Group in Mid Calder also meets on a Tuesday from 2pm to 4pm.

On Wednesdays St Andrew’s Court Activity Group meets in Uphall from 10am until 12pm.

The Nibble and Natter Social Group meets in Bathgate every second Wednesday from 1.30pm to 3.30pm at Royal Scot Court and a Singing for Health group in partnership with Ageing Well meets Carmondean fortnightly on Wednesdays from 2.30pm to 4pm at the Ability Centre.

Also on Wednesdays Blackfaulds Court Activity Group meets in Fauldhouse from 2pm 4pm.

Every second Thursday there is Nibble and Natter Social Group Linlithgow from 2pm to 4pm in Longcroft Hall and Colinshiel Court Activity Group in Armadale also meets every Thursday

You can read Joyce’s full blog at https://cyrenians.scot/guest-blogopal-turned-real-gem/.

If you would like to find out more about volunteering with OPAL, please call 01506 815 815 or email opal@ cyrenians.scot.