Isobel Watson’s mother died in 2015, cared for by Strathcarron Hospice@Home support teams. ⠀“The care my mum received at the end of her life was excellent, so when a card from Strathcarron Hospice came through the post asking if I needed any support, I gave them a call. The bereavement support I was offered was a huge help, and by chatting to the team, I found out that I could become a volunteer. I had no idea Strathcarron was so active in the community. ⠀From then on, I've been an active Strathcarron Community Befriender. I have met so many amazing and inspiring people through this role. By just being a listening ear, I can better help and signpost them to other people or local services that may make their lives feel a lot better. ⠀It is just amazing to be part of such a wonderful community, making connections with people every day. As an example, a few years ago, I was visiting Nancy as she had just had her hip replaced and needed a bit of company. As I was saying goodbye, I just happened to mention the name of my friend Nan, as she lived a couple of streets away. ⠀As it turned out, the two ladies used to work at the same company together over 63 years earlier! I I’ve since put them both in touch and they had a great time together and blether… ⠀I do believe that we are here on this earth to help others and sometimes the direction we walk has been chosen for us”. ⠀

There are so many opportunities to help support people in their homes across our local communities, so why not make 2022 the year you volunteer with us? We would love to hear from you, so please get in touch via email and find out more: [email protected]

NB. Picture of Nan (left) and Nancy (right) taken together in 2018 with their permission to share their story.