Sara’s story

Sara volunteers with our Compassionate Neighbour scheme

“I’ve always enjoyed volunteering, ever since I was 14 and I helped at my local Rainbows group.  I’ve volunteered in a number of different roles since then.   

“I have a very full life with kids and a busy job, so I was looking for a volunteer role that could be flexible and wasn’t always on a particular day or time.  Things happen – your kids get ill, there’s an event at school, or something last-minute comes up at work – so I was looking for a volunteer role where I wouldn’t let anyone down if I had to reschedule.  That’s when I found the Compassionate Neighbour scheme and it stood out as something that might fit in with my life.   

“I believe that everyone has something to offer, and meeting other people always enriches your life.  I’m 40 and I hang out mainly with people my own age, so it’s nice to spend time with George, as there’s always something to learn from someone different to you.  

“After his stroke in 2019, George moved out of London where he had been working as an interior designer, to live in a retirement property in Berkhamsted, where he knew very few people.  Covid then happened, and apart from the people living in his new home, he was unable to meet other people.  When you have a stroke, it’s important to keep talking and engaging with people so the muscles in your face get stronger and George didn’t have much opportunity to do this.  George is such a smart and engaging person, so he can find it frustrating when his words don’t catch up with his mind.  

A role that enrinches two lives

“I really enjoy my time with George as he is a very interesting person.  When we go for walks, he tells me all about the architecture of the buildings we pass, which I find fascinating.  We share a love of coffee, so we tend to try out a new cafe every week.  George and I are on a mission to find the best coffee in Hertfordshire!  Maybe we should write a book!”  

“George has some family that live locally, but I think he likes my company as I provide a wider social network for him.  He likes keeping active, so I provide another opportunity to do something different. We chat about everything and anything – art, fitness and interior design.  

“It is by far my favourite volunteering role I’ve ever done, and I’ve done a few! I get so much out of it, and I love the fact it is flexible and fits into my life so well.  I think we both enrich each other’s lives, which makes it the perfect combination.”