Kathy’s Story: Why I Became a Kindness Volunteer

We have been completely blown away by the response we’ve had from our Kindness Volunteer supporters. In just a few short weeks, over 5,000 of you have signed up to help people across Scotland.

Because of our Kindness Volunteers, vulnerable people will no longer have to face coronavirus alone. Whether it’s dropping off essential shopping, calling for a regular chat or sharing vital health information on social media, our Kindness Volunteers are doing amazing things right now.

If you know someone who would benefit from a blether or support from a Kindness Volunteer, please encourage them to sign up here or give us a call on 0808 801 0899.

Kathy, a childminder from Lennoxtown, signed up to become a Kindness Volunteer a few weeks ago. Today, she is sharing her story about why she decided to become a Kindness Caller, and the difference it has made to both her and the people she helps.

Kathy’s story

I love a good chat and I’m always happy to listen and help people in my community whenever I can, so that’s why I wanted to become a Kindness Caller.

I now speak to two ladies over the phone each week and I’ve found it really interesting. It’s something I look forward to and I really enjoy our conversations.

If you’re isolated at home, having that friendly phone call and someone checking in and just asking ‘how are you?’ can make such a difference.

One of the ladies I speak to is in her 90s and doesn’t have the internet, so the telephone is an absolute lifeline for her.

I enjoy our chats and finding out about her life, and what it was like growing up in Rome as she’s originally from Italy.

It’s fascinating to hear her stories and we talk about our children too. It’s just light-hearted conversation but it’s something we both get a lot out of.

At the minute, everything just feels a bit strange and odd for everyone right now. But when you’re on your own, it is even harder.

Speaking to them every week brings lightness into my life and theirs, at a time when it can be quite dark and frightening.

They can sometimes get worried when they hear the news. Actually the news is something they fear.

But our volunteer training on the myths and facts of the virus has come in really useful, so that I can help put their minds at rest. It’s nice to know I can be there for them and answer any questions they have or point them in the right direction.

I would definitely recommend signing up to become a Chest Heart & Stroke Scotland volunteer. The training is fantastic and I love learning new things so it’s been fascinating for me.

To feel like you’re helping someone, just by picking up the phone, is an amazing feeling.

Get help from a Kindness Volunteer

If you – or someone you know – would benefit from our Kindness Services, including regular calls, picking up medicine, delivering shopping and dog walking, please fill in your details here or give our Advice Line a call on 0808 801 0899.