In recognition of Volunteers Week, our lovely telephone befriending volunteer Joyce has shared her journey...

 

"For me, Mondays are always special for this is the day when I telephone all my Carers.

Being a Telephone Befriender is, in some ways, a complicated relationship. We share so many things - tears and laughter, joy and sorrow, and numerous other facets of life including its frustrations, and all without ever meeting. 

Maybe the fact that we are anonymous help's Carers to be open about their situation, and also how they are coping emotionally. So many time's people ask about the patient but not so often about the Carer which can sometimes make us feel we have become invisible.

It is also a fact that we cannot always talk to those closest to us, the ones we love most like our family and friends, because we don't want to cause them to be anxious or upset.

This is where Telephone Befrienders come in as people you can talk to in complete confidence, and without fear of criticism, or judgement."

 

Find out more about volunteering for Derbyshire Carers Association