Sheffield Churches Council for Community Care’s (S&4C’s) Good Neighbour Programme focuses on loneliness and isolation of people aged over 65 in Sheffield, and demand is high.
The charity supports people with health, physical and mental challenges but when asked what was at the heart of the service Tammy Wilson, Good Neighbour Scheme Manager said: “It is all about putting the world to rights with that person with a brew and being that friend, that listening ear for people who sometimes don’t have anyone else to talk to.”
Volunteers have told Ms Wilson it is the most rewarding volunteer role they’ve ever had, she said “It can be life changing to have even just one person visit for an hour. Someone who was actually given their time to spend time with you.”
The programme also acts as a vital bridge to other services. Ms Wilson explained that the carer of one lady they support was badly injured and became unable to care for her. It was only through the conversations with S&4C’s volunteer that they were able to find out she was living in damp, and couldn’t get to the shop to get meds.
The GP and adult social care were immediately contacted. 72 hours after one conversation with a volunteer, the lady was in a completely different situation.
Ericka Hill – Volunteer Manager (Left) Tammy Wilson – Good Neighbour Scheme Manager (Right) (Source: Ollie Potts)
A lot of volunteers are students who miss having Grandparents or are retiring from jobs in health or social care and still want to do something. The only requirements are you have to be over 18 and have to have a DBS check.
S&4C’s has been in Sheffield since 1966, is free to the end user, and currently has 167 volunteers supporting 270 people.
According to Age UK more than 2 million people in England over the age of 75 live alone. However, this issue doesn’t just affect one age group.
Other spaces across the city focus on connecting the community such as the S12 community pantry. They focus on easing food poverty, while offering support through activities and advice.
We spoke with Nicolas Burke, 55, who was attending the social cafe at S12 community pantry.
Mr Burke said “having something like this where you can come and find out where you can get the help and support I think it’s very important for people. Especially as they get elderly because you do get more lonely.
Having someone there to talk to its a big thing at the end of the day. It keeps your sanity. I’m only 55 that’s not old. And I feel like I’m losing my marbles. God knows how someone in their 80s feels.”
If you are interested in volunteering for S&4C’s email: volunteers@scccc.co.uk or visit their website: www.scccc.co.uk
If you or someone you know is struggling with loneliness you can call 01142505292 to discuss a referral or head to: https://scccc.co.uk/get-help/good-neighbour-scheme
