Spring has started. The moment for many to go outside. Unfortunately, this is not so obvious for a large group of people. For example, because they do not dare to go out alone due to psychological vulnerability. Or because they have difficulty walking due to age or a physical disability. For them, a buddy can give them that little push to get out the door. Simply, by going together.
Volunteer organization Handjehelpen links children and adults with disabilities or (mental) vulnerability to people who would like to offer some support. They see that more than half of the outstanding requests for help concern people who want to go outside with a buddy. These are not only adults and the elderly, but also children who do not spend enough time outside due to circumstances.
A buddy makes a big difference
The story of Utrecht volunteer Simon (45) shows how great the impact a buddy can have. Simon is a buddy of Kees (49), who did not dare to go out on the street alone due to an anxiety disorder. He finds busy places especially difficult. When he is with Simon, the feelings of fear are gone. Together they visit museums or have lunch on a terrace. Simon sees that Kees’s self-confidence is growing. Simon: “I have known Kees for a year now and I see that he is becoming more and more daring. He even went to a concert alone once, which was a real victory for him.”
Geeske (84) was also looking for a buddy to go outside more often. She has difficulty walking and has problems with her vision. Geeske: “If you are not careful, you will become one of those people who always sits alone in her room. I need someone to take me outside every now and then.” Volunteer Monique visits her every week. “I really come for the fun and preferably we go outside together. Just go to the store or the park. Sometimes she is already there with her coat on when I come and sometimes she dreads going outside. Then I’ll just come for tea. This way she still has some claim and cheers her up a bit.”
Help a neighbor from De Ronde Venen
Many people in De Ronde Venen are also looking for a buddy to go out with. Regional coordinator Jessy says: “There may be various reasons why someone prefers not to go outside alone. As a buddy you can give that extra bit of confidence, a little push in the back.”
A selection of current requests for help from De Ronde Venen:
- Willem (49) is a friendly man with autism. He is sporty and a real animal lover, especially cats. He wants to do fun things with someone. Walking, cycling, visiting something together or just having a nice chat. Are you going out with the active Willem?
- Mr Sentjes (83) has always had a good job. Unfortunately, he was always so busy with this that he built up few social contacts. He now has early onset dementia. The gentleman would like to have a good conversation with someone and go on excursions. He also likes to cycle, walk or go to the market.
- Eddie (12) is a tough boy who loves fishing. He has not lived here long and would like to get to know other young people who he can fish with occasionally. Will you cast a line with him?
Will you also help a fellow villager this spring and go outside together? Check the website for volunteer work in De Ronde Venen or contact Jessy van Wijngaarden, 06-82094607, [email protected].
About Handjehelpen
Handjehelpen’s volunteers and interns support children and adults with a chronic illness, disability or behavior that requires extra attention. We are also there for (overburdened) informal caregivers. We ensure the right match between the person seeking help and the volunteer or intern and provide guidance where necessary. No indication is required for our assistance. Handjehelpen has been around for 45 years this year and is active in sixteen municipalities in the provinces of Utrecht and North Holland. See also: www.handjehelpen.nl
Tags: Handjehelpen calls vulnerable neighbor
