Meet Our Volunteers

Our volunteers are central to everything we do, and we couldn't do the work we do without them. Being a volunteer benefits everyone involved, and is a great way to meet new people, boost your confidence and wellbeing, and gain some great skills for your CV. 

Find out more about the benefits of volunteering from some of our volunteers below, starting with this video from Rose and Sarah, which shows how our befriending service benefits volunteers and recipients in equal measure:

“My last New Year's resolution was to look for something to do as a volunteer in my community. I discovered on the Age UK Berkshire website that they were advertising for Befrienders to prevent loneliness for those that cannot get out of their homes on their own.

"I decided to try this and have to say that I absolutely love it. I visit a lady in her 50s who is housebound due to mobility issues. We get along so well. I also take her dog for a walk. She really appreciates this and her dog is very important to her.” 

Megan Fitter

“Whilst out working, I noticed how lonely certain elderly people are in the community, and that their domiciliary carers are often the only people these clients see in a day. I decided to try to make a difference by joining Age UK's Befriending team in Berkshire.” 

I have been visiting a 96 year old lady. She only had her carers visiting her but now she has me as a friendly face too. Although she is living with dementia, she always recognises my face and is so happy to see me.” 

Hellen

“I took maternity leave to have my baby and was looking for some way I could serve the community. I have found that the more I give in my teaching career, the more I get back. This is exactly what has happened with Befriending for me. For anyone who is thinking about doing this type of work...think more! It is just so rewarding to know you have brightened someone's day. You get back far more than you give.” 

Zara Preston