A HEART attack victim has praised the vital support she receives from a charity scheme to help banish her isolation woes.
Margaret Kilgour is one of a number of older people in South Tyneside who benefit from Age UK’s befriending service.
The 91-year-old, who suffered a heart attack in 2003, struggles to get out and about because she also suffers from arthritis.
She relies on weekly visits from an Age UK South Tyneside volunteer to help keep her abreast with what’s going on in the outside world.
The pensioner, from Simonside, South Shields, says the visits are a lifeline and is calling on the people in the borough to get behind a fundraising drive to help keep the vital services going.
Between now and next Friday, the older people’s charity is hoping to sell 2,500 bobbles.
The challenge is part of Age UK’s Spread the Warmth campaign and is being supported by the Gazette and Asda stores in Boldon and South Shields.
Bobbles, which cost £1, are now on sale at both Asda stores, the Shields Gazette reception in Chapter Row, South Shields, and from the charity’s reception in Beach Road, South Shields.
Bobbles can be worn either on a hat, on a scarf or on jackets.
A donation of £5 would help pay for a visit from a befriender to an isolated older person.
Mrs Kilgour, who has limited contact with her family as they live away, said: “It’s really nice to know that you have somebody who is near at hand when you need them. My volunteer comes every Wednesday for a coffee and a chinwag.
“We have a chat about what’s going on in the world, politics, gardening or just what’s on television.
“I have really enjoyed his company during the last 10 years. I love my family but I look forward to seeing him every week. He puts a smile on my face.”
John Briers, Chief Executive of Age UK South Tyneside, said: “This is an excellent example of the type of support we can provide to older people living in our community.
“Whether anyone can offer support by buying a bobble or simply pledge some time to support an older person in the community, we are extremely grateful.
“We would like to encourage people to get in touch or visit our website for information on how they can help.”
For more information contact 456 6903 or visit www.ageuksouthtyneside.org.uk
Twitter: @shieldsgazlisa
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