Margaret has been volunteering for us as a receptionist at the Ann Owens Centre - and during the Covid crisis, she has been a lifeline to a mother and daughter with mental health issues.
'I wanted to volunteer because I cannot sit and do nothing when I could still be useful. I have always worked in the care and social services environment and I am not fulfilled unless I am caring.
'During this awful time I have been befriending a daughter and her mother, chatting to both of them regularly, encouraging them to try new things and making sure they have enough food and someone to pick up their prescriptions. I ring up three times a week - sometimes more - to make sure they feel supported.
'They both have mental health issues and it is rewarding when the daughter says, "When will you ring again?"'
'I have also telephoned thirty people to get their email addresses in order that they can join one of Age UK Barnet's concerts on Youtube. When I was doing this, I found out just how lonely some people are and how much they value having someone to talk to.
'I am now waiting for delivery of birthday cards and stamps and I will be posting birthday cards to people so that they feel they are not forgotten.
'I get satisfaction from helping people, I love talking to them and feel happy if I think I have brought a little happiness to them.'
