Arthur & Sandra

Arthur is 93 years old, and for a long time he was a carer first and foremost. His wife was terminally ill, and he couldn't leave her alone, which meant his world had grown very small. With her sleeping for much of the day, the house had become a quiet and lonely place. Adult Social Care referred him to The Link, hoping we could bring some company and connection back into his week.

We matched Arthur with volunteer Sandra, and arranged for them to meet. Sadly, Arthur's wife passed away shortly before that first visit, which made the timing feel all the more significant. Rather than a nice extra, Sandra's visits had become something Arthur really needed. From the moment they met, it was clear they were going to get along. The conversation flowed, the laughter came easily, and a genuine friendship began to take shape.

Seven months on, that friendship is going from strength to strength. Sandra visits every week, and says the two hours fly by every time. She even arranged a special birthday meal out for Arthur, contacting the restaurant in advance so the staff could make a fuss of him and bring out a surprise dessert. Arthur told us: "It's like we have been friends for many years. I want to congratulate The Link Visiting Scheme for matching me up so well."

It's a privilege to play a small part in a friendship like theirs.

*Names changed to protect anonymity

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