Q&A: A day in the life of a Friendship Volunteer

We caught up with Bryan, one of our wonderful volunteers on the Age Scotland Friendship Service to give us some insight into the day in the life of a volunteer.

Q) Can you tell us a little about yourself?

My name is Bryan Greenock. I have been working for BNP Paribas in Glasgow for 5 years, previously I worked for HSBC and Morgan Stanley. Before this, I ran a small hotel up in Mid Argyll, just outside Inveraray. I enjoy cycling, hiking, playing golf, and curling in my spare time.

Q) Why did you choose to volunteer for Age Scotland’s Friendship Service?

I found the concept of the service intriguing and extremely worthwhile, our charity working group at BNP Paribas promoted the opportunity with our teams. The value provided by the service is so critical to users and their families, I really wanted to play my part in supporting it.

Q) Can you share any highlights from your time as a Friendship Caller for Age Scotland?

The users of the service that you talk to generally change each week, but after a while, you get the opportunity to talk to someone you’ve spoken to before. It really brought a smile to my face the first time I was remembered, and we picked up our conversation where we’d left it previously! I could then hear what it meant to the user that I had remembered them, their interests and what we’d spoken about on previous calls.

Q) What do you think makes a great volunteer caller for Age Scotland?

A genuine, healthy and gentle curiosity. The ability to actively listen whilst guiding conversation around subjects, engaging with what’s being said in a positive and friendly way.

Q) What advice would you give anyone considering volunteering as a Friendship Caller?

To get involved and try it. As a volunteer it is a relatively straightforward service to deliver, but one that makes a direct and significant impact to the people that live in our communities. I recognise that it is a privilege to have the opportunity to make such a positive difference to someone.

How to get involved!

We’re always on the lookout for volunteers to make regular phone calls to isolated older people across Scotland.

If you are friendly, enjoy a good blether, and have an hour a week to spare – join us as a Friendship volunteer and help tackle loneliness and isolation across Scotland, one call at a time!

If you would like to find out more about becoming an Age Scotland volunteer, please get in touch with our Friendship team who would be happy to answer any questions.