Delia and Peggy met when they were matched by St Clare Hospice’s Compassionate Neighbours project. Due to Covid-19 restrictions they got to know each other over the phone, but thanks to the scheme volunteer Delia brought friendship into Peggy’s life before she died.
Basedin Epping, Delia has been a Compassionate Neighbour for more than two years. “I initially joined as I enjoy talking to people” she said.
Although they never met face-to-face, this didn’t stop them from bonding. “We never met, but from day one it was like we had known each other for years. The conversations just flowed and we were never lost for words. We could be on the phone for over an hour some weeks. I heard about her happy life, from childhood to adulthood.”
A valuable friendship
Sadly, Peggy died recently but her daughter Debbie explained how valuable her friendship with Delia had been. “My mum got so much out of talking to Delia and really enjoyed their time on the phone together. It was just a shame they never got to meet. However, not meeting didn’t make a difference to their friendship, they got on like they had always known each other.”
Delia added: “The short time we were telephone buddies was a happy time for us both.”
The hospice has recently secured further funding from Epping Forest District Council to ensure the project continues, and more people like Delia can receive free training to support people in the community who are frail, socially isolated and/or have a life-limiting condition.
“We’re so grateful for this vital funding which will help us to continue changing local people’s lives throughout the area, tackling loneliness and social isolation amongst those who are living with a life-limiting illness or experiencing frailty due to older age,” explains Stacey Towler, Compassionate Neighbours project manager at St Clare Hospice.
Tackling loneliness
“Our mission is to help people to live independently for longer, whilst improving mental health and wellbeing; promoting healthy relationships and support networks within communities. This work could not be more important throughout the pandemic.”
To date almost 300 people have taken part in the scheme since it began in 2018, either benefitting directly or through volunteering. However Stacey adds that there are many more people out there facing loneliness throughout these difficult times that they want to reach.
Speaking about the funding, Cllr Holly Whitbread, Portfolio Holder for Housing and Communities at Epping Forest District Council, added: “The past few months of lockdown and loss have been very difficult, particularly for those most vulnerable, including those nearing the end of their life through age or illness who may be experiencing loneliness.”
“This community spirited project is helping those who need it most by providing friendship and support and helping to tackle social isolation. It is great that St Clare Hospice have used technology to keep the scheme going despite Covid restrictions; this companionship is more important now than ever.”
