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Volunteer Duncan was involved in the Marmalade Companions project. We're so thankful to each and every one of of volunteers for dedicating time each week, calling their companion. Over a period of around 15 weeks, volunteers have enabled individuals to step out of loneliness and make meaningful, long-lasting connections in their local community.
Not only have members benefitted from the project but volunteers have too. 85% of our volunteers felt that the project had positive impacts for them.
Duncan's story
Duncan’s journey to becoming a Marmalade Companion began unexpectedly. “I was listening to an old radio podcast and heard about Marmalade Trust,” he recalled. Intrigued, he looked it up, assuming the project had likely ended since the podcast was old. To his surprise, the timing was perfect, and he was able to join the first Marmalade Companions project. “It was meant to be!”
For Duncan, the experience has been overwhelmingly positive. He was paired with Ken, a lively and talkative member. “Ken is very gregarious (in a good way) – there have been no quiet or awkward moments,” Duncan said. The two quickly found they had plenty in common, including shared experiences on air bases and a mutual love of brass bands and local history.
However, Duncan acknowledged some of the challenges he faced in trying to support Ken. “I’ve found it challenging sometimes to find suitable things to signpost him to,” he said, especially as many community activities were shut down due to the COVID pandemic. “I found him one course, but then it was cancelled. It can be hard finding things that are suitable for the member’s different abilities and interests!”
Despite these difficulties, Duncan felt he had helped boost Ken’s confidence in seeking out new activities. Ken has since found a welcoming ukulele club and even started attending an exercise class.
The connection they share has been particularly meaningful to Duncan, who noted that his relationship with Ken felt deeper than some of his friendships with people his own age. “All of my own grandparents have passed away, so I don’t have much contact with the older generations – it has been so nice! I think Ken and I have more in common and more in-depth chats than I have with colleagues and friends of my own age.”
Reflecting on his experience as a Marmalade Companion, Duncan said, “It’s just been so entertaining hearing his life story. He could write a 1,000-page book and still not tell about all the highs and lows, successes and challenging times.”
For anyone considering becoming a Marmalade Companion, Duncan offers simple but valuable advice: “Go into it with an open mind and open ears! Just take time, be patient, don’t rush it – you have plenty of time to get to know the member.”
Join our volunteer family
Each year, our small team at Marmalade HQ are overwhelmed with how many kind people offer their time to support their community. Through our Christmas Cheer and Marmalade Companion projects, we reach out to those most at risk of loneliness, guiding them to vital support and empowering them to make new friendships and connections.
Joining us as a volunteer not only changes lives but also offers a chance to forge lasting friendships, enjoy meaningful experiences, and truly connect with your community. We are so grateful for the kindness and generosity of our volunteers, many of whom have been with us since the beginning! Marmalade volunteers say they feel supported and valued and enjoy meeting new, like-minded people.
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