ST Clare Hospice is calling for more people to become Compassionate Neighbours to help tackle loneliness among some of Harlow’s most vulnerable residents.

The charity’s Compassionate Neighbours initiative is a vital community-led project that brings meaningful human connection back into the lives of people who are lonely due to serious illness or old age.

Visits often involve nothing more than a friendly chat over a cup of tea, but for people like Margaret they bring comfort, companionship and support.

A widow in her 80s with no close family living nearby, Margaret knows first-hand how life-changing having a Compassionate Neighbour come to visit once a week can be, having been matched with Carrie at the end of 2024.

“The match is excellent,” said Maragaret. “It has made a real difference in my life and I always look forward to our Sunday catch ups. Without Carrie, life would be slightly empty. I no longer feel like it’s a long time in between my weekly arrangements because she breaks up the loneliness at the weekend.”

As well as emotional connection, Carrie has offered practical support during Margaret’s house move – helping with charity donations and even setting up her stereo so she can enjoy music again.

“Carrie has helped me so much in a lot of ways,” she said. “From setting up my stereo so I can enjoy music again, to helping me with dump runs and donations to St Clare when I moved house.”

The bond they’ve formed goes far beyond volunteering, and they even came along to St Clare’s annual pamper day together. “We’ve formed a friendship and I feel like if I needed help with anything I would be able to reach out to Carrie,” Margaret added.

“It makes me feel like someone is concerned about me by taking the time to visit for a cup of tea. After Carrie’s been to see me, I always feel much calmer and happier.”

St Clare urgently needs more volunteers like Carrie, particularly in and around Harlow, where people can often go days without seeing or speaking to another person.

To become a Compassionate Neighbour and help tackle loneliness in your community, visit stclarehospice.org.uk/compassionate-neighbours or call the St Clare Community Engagement Team on 01279 594471.