The Befrienders meet with Foley Court tenants three days a week to reduce social isolation and boost wellbeing in elderly residents, supporting them to live independently for longer. Foley Court, a Bield Housing and Care Retirement Housing development, is renowned for supporting its tenants, ensuring that older adults stay connected and engaged through a series of social activities and partnerships like that of the Befrienders. Eddie Turnbull, a Foley Court resident, not only benefits from the programme but also volunteers his time to support others in the group.
Eddie, who moved to the area during the pandemic, said: "Volunteering with the Bute Elderly Befrienders has been a lifeline for me as much as it has been for those we help. “Keeping physically and mentally active is important, and this role allows me to give back to the community. “The experience of taking people out who might not otherwise leave their homes has been rewarding.
Seeing them enjoy a cup of tea or a drive around the island makes it all worthwhile." Another key figure in this initiative is Angie Watt, a Bute native who meets with over 25 clients a week across the island. The former cabin crew has been a Befriender since early 2023.
She said: “The connection we’ve fostered between Foley Court and the Befrienders has been invaluable. “I love that I get the opportunity to meet with such wonderful people each week, we always have such a laugh, it’s great to see people come out of their shells. �.