Volunteers
Page 18
Telefriend goes national
Telefriend, the Foundation's telephone support service run by volunteers, is now available nationally.
Originally it was available only in the Wellington area. Alison Marshall, National Manager Volunteer Services says, "The need was greater than just the Wellington region, so we've gradually extended the service into other regions over the years.
"At the beginning of July we made the final leap and took Telefriend national – making it accessible for all members in New Zealand."
The people on the other end of the 0800 number are known on a first name basis, just like a friend and available every afternoon – Monday to Friday – from 1pm to 4pm.
Beryl, June, Bev, Jim, Sandy, Sheila and Gail are themselves vision-impaired, which means they already have personal insight into how their callers may feel.
June says that many callers are lonely or simply want to share stories and talk about their sight loss with someone who can truly empathise.
"Members can ring as often as they like - every day if they want to," says June, "and we will be there for them, giving them our time, understanding and support.
"The most interesting thing for us is how blindness affects people from all walks of life and nationalities – it does not discriminate."
The team are themselves a reflection of their callers. Aged from their mid-50s through to early-70s, they are from different walks of life, but have all met the challenge of sight loss by developing new skills to manage in their daily lives. They have also gone through basic counseling skills training.
In addition to receiving incoming calls, the service also provides outgoing "care calls".
Jack has been getting calls every week for the last 4-5 years.
"I live alone and the thing that I appreciate the most is the 10 to 15 minutes I have with Telefriend that breaks up the long spells in the morning and afternoon," he says.
"I've got to know the team very well and after our chats I feel all together different about my day."
Telefriend has been in existence for over 12 years, is funded by the Foundation, and supported by Foundation staff.
If you are interested in talking with a Telefriend, call 0800 100 051.