An Alzheimer’s Society befriending service that supports people living with dementia, is looking to recruit more volunteers in the local area.

Here, in an interview, one of the charity’s current volunteers, Rena Cottis, tells us why she got involved:"I recently retired and had some time to think about doing something useful for others and interesting at the same time. I have a lot of respect for what Alzheimer’s Society do and wanted to help them in some practical way.

"I like meeting people and hearing about their lives and accomplishments and also sharing experiences which we both enjoy. Befriending is very much a two-way exchange and once you get to know the person as a friend, you get just as much out of the experience as you put in.

"Befrienders do all sorts of activities from walking the dog, painting, train-spotting to going to the cinema, playing chess or snooker. I play Scrabble with one lady once a week and spend two hours chatting with a gentleman who has had such an interesting life and loves to talk. Basically, if there is something you love doing, someone out there, in contact with Alzheimer’s Society, will also be an enthusiast and you can help them maintain that interest

"The time I spend with people varies depending on the activity. A couple of hours a week is the average for most people, but it can be fortnightly or even monthly if that’s more appropriate to both parties and the activity involved.

"Most people respond very well to having a new ‘friend’ and the manner of the way they met you becomes unimportant very quickly as you both discover new things about each other and common interests develop. It definitely does become harder to make new friends as one ages and the ‘pairing’ process ensures there will be a lot of things both parties have in common to get the relationship off on a good footing

People sometimes ask if I feel as though I’m making a difference; I can’t alter the circumstances people find themselves in or change the diagnosis, but just visiting regularly and being open and friendly does seem to make a difference and the feedback is generally very positive. It is very rewarding to see someone’s mood lift during a visit and to leave them more upbeat than they were when you arrived. You may be one of the few people they have seen during the week and although it may be a small part of your week, it has made a difference to their self-esteem and enjoyment of life.

"I would recommend it to anyone who has a few hours spare in their week, as it makes you feel better knowing you have made a difference to someone else, however small, and I think everyone benefits from more friends in their life

"My top tip for anyone interested in becoming an Alzheimer’s Society befriending volunteer is not to be put off by the fact that those you will see have ‘dementia’. It is a huge umbrella term and can be a frightening prospect for some. The people requiring befrienders are always at the early stages of the disorder and are keen to maintain their activity and to stimulate their minds and are living independently without assistance. Don’t forget, you will always have support on hand should you feel uncomfortable or concerned about anything during a visit. Keep an open mind on the things you might enjoy doing with someone, they may bring something unexpected into your repertoire.

Each volunteer has a ‘manager’ who will get to know you and pair you with a suitable client and ensure you feel confident and comfortable at every step of the way."

To find out more about Alzheimer’s Society’s befriending service, please contact

Lindsey Dowdell, Alzheimer’s Society befriending manager, on 077932 21226 or [email protected]