“We are family, we are sisters.”
On paper, Patsy and Molly couldn’t be more different. Patsy is a great-grandmother with a big family who came to London from Jamaica in 2015. “I miss the sun, and being able to leave my door open,” she says. Sadly, Patsy has lymphedema, and can rarely leave the flat where she now lives. Molly moved from Derby to the capital to work in politics: she loves its fast pace and buzz.
They were introduced by local charity Link Age Southwark during the Covid-19 pandemic, during which a regular weekly phone call proved to be a crucial lifeline for many isolated older people. Patsy and Molly now regularly meet up in person.
“I took to her immediately. I can talk to her about anything,” says Patsy. “It means a lot because I don’t have anyone coming to talk especially to me. I’ve got to know all about her, especially her cat Piper. I appreciate her coming to see me. She’s even introduced me to her mum and dad on the phone. I keep an eye on her for them!”
When Molly moved to London, she wanted to use some of her spare time to help others and support the local community. She loved meeting and talking to people from all backgrounds so joined Link Age Southwark as a befriender.
“I was very close to grandparents and visiting Patsy is like going to see my grandma. I love hearing her stories. I’ve learned a lot from her about Jamaica and its culture,” says Molly. “And she has such a great energy, she’s so funny. You never know where you’re going to make a new friend.”
There are many older people in Southwark experiencing loneliness and social isolation. If you’d like to consider befriending someone locally, please contact volunteering@linkagesouthwark.org or call 020 8299 2623, or apply directly via https://www.linkagesouthwark.org/volunteer-application
In a little box to pop out
Link Age Southwark is also interested in recruiting volunteer drivers, gardeners, event helpers and digital buddies. All relevant screening and training provided – more info at www.linkagesouthwarg.org”