Helen’s
Sightline Story
I have volunteered with Sightline for some time now; originally doing the helpline then moving across to the befriending service. A friend recommended the opportunity, and I am now well into my 2nd year of volunteering for the charity.
I currently speak to a lady called Imogen* who has glaucoma. Imogen really enjoys chatting about what is going on in the world but has also sought reassurance about her visual impairment through our calls. With all the numerous appointments she has had at hospital, we have talked through all her concerns and experiences and this really makes her feel better.
Quite often, Imogen tells me our calls make her day. She is happy with our weekly call and always looks forward to them. I volunteer with Sightline around my college studies (I am currently in my fourth year studying Human Biology). I really feel like I am making a difference to someone else living in the sight loss community.
“When I first spoke to Imogen she asked me what I was studying. I told her it was Human Biology and she explained she spent a career as a midwife. This became a catalyst for many conversations that helped me through my fourth year of study.
Befriending relationships work both ways and can benefit both parties!“
*Names changed to protect service user identity.
We currently have a number of volunteering opportunities available. Please get in touch if you can spare as little as 1 hour a week. Your call can really make a difference to someone living in the sight loss community.
Call 0800 587 2252 or email us at info@sightline.org.uk to find out more.
To find out more, please contact us:
(*0800 numbers are free to call from BT landlines and most mobile networks)