One of the most memorable volunteering moments for Loraine Coleman was when she received a call from another volunteer who works for the Metropolitan police.
“Loraine, I’ve found a pair of false teeth in the back of my car ... What do I do?”
“Well, give them back. I assume they aren’t yours? Who did you take home after the tea party?”
“Er, Peggy, Joan and Alan...”
“Well there’s your answer.”
“What do you mean? What should I do?”
“You’re the detective!”
Coleman, 62, from Thurrock always planned to volunteer with older people when she retired: “I knew there was such a big gap in the care and support this generation receive and I found the thought heartbreaking - no one should have to feel lonely and stuck at home.”
Since she started volunteering with her husband Mick for Contact the Elderly in 2015, her team of volunteers have set up seven groups in Thurrock. By hosting tea parties for groups of ten, for those aged 75 and older who live on their own, Coleman and her team regularly provide support, friendship and companionship for almost 80 of the most isolated older people in the community.
“Working with my older neighbours is very rewarding and a lot of fun,” she says. “To hear their stories, the hardships they have overcome, and their experiences and lessons, is inspiring. I feel like I’m making a positive difference to the lives of other by sharing my time with them, helping older people stay active, social and making clear to them they are valued by our community.”
As an area coordinator, Coleman helps organise social events and recruits and manages volunteers, without whom none of the work would be possible: “The 63 volunteers we have are truly incredible and are a constant source of inspiration for me. So many go above and beyond what’s asked, giving their time, energy and kindness, just because they care. I’ve found so much enthusiasm from people wanting to make the lives of our older neighbours better.
“I’ve met so many amazing people from all walks of life. It’s one of the best things I’ve ever done and it’s enriched my life so much. I feel very much a part of a growing charity that focuses on reducing loneliness and isolation with our elderly. Our ageing population will require much support over the years and I am looking forward to this challenge and making a difference by helping today’s generation of older people live and enjoy the old age that they deserve.”
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