Sightline – HW: #BefriendingIs benefitting both parties
27th September 2021
Established in 2003, Sightline was set up by Eileen Green who was herself registered blind. She identified a need for visually impaired people to have an opportunity to communicate their experiences, from the comfort of their home. Sadly, Eileen died suddenly in 2013 but her legacy lives on through Sightline, a registered charity based in Lancashire, but operating across the UK. Today, Sightline provides an innovative service focused on delivering practical and emotional support to blind and partially sighted people, through a free* telephone befriending service.
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 though our calls. With all the numerous appointments she has had at hospital, we have talked though 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!
*Name changed to protect service user identity.
By: Sightline
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