I'm really privileged to not only be part of the marketing team at Age Connects Cardiff & the Vale but also a befriending volunteer for the charity.

I visited my first client, Nadine, who was in her 90s, with my faithful hound Tilly for over two years for a cuppa and a chat before she sadly passed away during the Covid pandemic. I now visit Shirley weekly. An hour with Shirley literally feels like five minutes - we just don't stop talking. Shirley also makes a wonderful cup of coffee!

If anyone is considering becoming a volunteer, I would say - yes. The benefits for the client are obvious, but the rewards for you as a volunteer, are equal - friendship and knowing that you are making a difference.