Rose
I have lived in the same house in Reading all my life. I have lots of memories of Old Reading, and in my youth I enjoyed an active life, going out to dances at The Majestic Dance Hall, and being invited to join the American GIs at their camp for dancing.
I have had a good life, but I am now housebound, lonely, and isolated. I have help from carers and a good friend who does my shopping, but she is unable to do more as she works full-time, and so I really benefit from Torch’s services.
My social provider, Sharon, got in touch with Torch a couple of years ago when I needed to be taken to regular appointments at my GP practice for blood tests, as well as hospital and dentist appointments. I was introduced to Anne, a volunteer with Torch, and she has been helping with me all my appointments and we have got to know each other really well.
“I don’t think I would be living independently if it wasn’t for the help and friendship of Torch”
Where would I be without Torch? I don’t think I would be living independently if it wasn’t for the help and friendship of Torch. I really enjoy the opportunity to get out, even if it’s only to a hospital appointment with a stop for a cup of tea afterwards. For me, it’s a real outing.
I feel better about being able to do some things for myself, and Anne’s continuing friendship and occasional visits contribute to my better wellbeing. I feel less anxious when she has been to see me, and I look forward to her next visit. I would certainly recommend Torch’s services.
Anne
I’ve been volunteering for Torch almost since the charity started. I’m a volunteer driver, taking clients to hospital and doctor’s appointments. I also help with decluttering, house moves and being a ‘sensible friend’ – accompanying clients to appointments and being there to support them. I’ve also helped repair and clean a much-loved stuffed elephant! There’s a lot of variety in my involvement.
I first met Rose when her social prescriber reached out to Torch for help. I, and other volunteers, initially took Rose to her doctor for regular blood tests (which are now thankfully done at home) and other appointments. When it came to a succession of dentist visits, I found it easier to make the appointments when I knew I was free to take Rose, and it meant that Torch didn’t have to keep putting out transport requests in the hope that someone was available.
Because this became ongoing support for Rose, rather than the typical one-off request, I got to know this lovely lady and her stories, and I have been able to also provide friendship. In this respect, I am in contact with Rose’s good friend and also Rose’s brother, who doesn’t live locally, and I am able to continue taking her to appointments.
“What started out as occasional transport requests has turned into a firm friendship …”
What started out as occasional transport requests has turned into a firm friendship, and I will continue to provide support and transport when required. I believe Rose’s social provider once said that if Torch couldn’t help in this case, she didn’t wasn’t sure who would.
Why do I volunteer? I believe as Christians we are called to be the hands and feet of Jesus – ‘What Would Jesus Do’ – and help our neighbours. (Matthew 25:34-40).
Being involved with Torch gives a great opportunity to give something back, and there are so many ways to help. Jesus is our Servant King who calls us to love and serve our neighbour. It is wonderful to see what a difference all the Torch volunteers make in people’s lives.
I have found it a real pleasure volunteering for Torch, meeting people with real needs, and being part of a wonderful group of Christians.
Story published with permission.