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  • Mental Health Awareness Week and Volunteering: Case study 3

    Created: 06/05/2022
    News/Events Category: FVA News


    As part of Mental Health  Awareness Week (09 - 15 May), we're showcasing the stories of some of the many volunteers that we support with volunteering. These stories explore how volunteering can help alleviate feelings of loneliness (the theme of the campaign) and poor mental health as well as its power in supporting people towards better and brighter destinations.

    Client 3: “I have met great folk and feel involved. I do hope that I am helping others”

    After spending over 40 years in the education sector, this client, who lives alone, wanted to spend his retirement by volunteering to help others, meet new folks, and utilise his wealth of skills and experience in a meaningful way.

    He was keen to find the right volunteering opportunity for him, so approached FVA for guidance. Our Volunteering Development Officer suggested becoming a Telephone Befriender with our own befriending service, offering support to Fifers who struggle with loneliness and isolation.

    After taking part in befriending training, the client was matched with a befriendee and over the past two years has made a massive difference to the mental wellbeing of his befriendee by listening to their stories and experiences and helping them to feel more connected.

    It’s amazing how offering a listening ear and empathetic voice over the phone made such a difference!

    Looking to start volunteering? We recommend taking part in our upcoming Step into Volunteering training to get you started. To find out more about the volunteering opportunities available in Fife, please visit our websiteContact us if you would like more information on volunteering.




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