PSPA, the UK’s only charity dedicated to supporting families living with rare neurological conditions, is calling out for new volunteers to join its Befriending Service.
As rare conditions, being diagnosed with Progressive Supranuclear Palsy (PSP) or Corticobasal Degeneration (CBD) can feel extremely isolating. To help increase support and reduce isolation in families affected by the conditions, PSPA is looking for Befriending Volunteers to donate just two to three hours a week or fortnight to change a life.
The service pairs Befriending Volunteers with local residents, who feel socially isolated or need support coming to terms with their PSP & CBD diagnosis. Whether it’s a weekly cup of tea or a simple phone call, these interactions provide a vital lifeline to the outside world.
“Living with a diagnosis of PSP or CBD is life changing and at times an individual or a family may need support to help them through a time of crisis, when struggling with a new diagnosis or if isolated or alone,” says Lavonne McCormmack, PSPA’s Volunteer Coordinator. “A diagnosis can put a strain on relationships and people’s mental health and having someone to talk to about their worries really can make a difference.”
“To ensure we can help more people across the UK, we’re looking for more volunteers to join our Befriending Service to help ensure no one faces these rare, incurable conditions alone. If you have a spare couple of hours, per week or per fortnight and you’d like to help, we’d love to hear from you.”
PSPA are currently looking to recruit Befriending Volunteers in Edinburgh, Glasgow, Leeds, Nottingham, Staffordshire, Birmingham, Leicestershire, Bristol, Somerset, Dorset, Devon and Cornwall.
Volunteer requirements
Volunteers are asked to commit to supporting an individual or family at least once a fortnight for a minimum of 12 weeks, and up to a year. Full training and ongoing support are provided.
“We cannot underestimate the relief the carer and person living with PSP or CBD can feel after speaking with someone who has been “on a similar journey.” David, PSPA Befriending Volunteer.Interested individuals can apply at www.pspassociation.org.uk/volunteering/or call Lavonne on 01327 356137.
