Richard Quigley MP Hears Emotional Befriending Story During Age UK Isle Of Wight Visit

Richard Quigley has visited Age UK Isle of Wight to learn more about its befriending services and the impact volunteers are having on older people across the Island.

During the visit, the MP met volunteer befriender Stephen, who shared his personal story of turning to volunteering after losing his partner in September 2025.

After being alone for the first time in almost 53 years, Stephen said he wanted to find something meaningful to help him cope with grief and loneliness.

Although initially considering volunteering with Mountbatten Isle of Wight, he was encouraged by friends to explore Age UK Isle of Wight’s befriending service.

Stephen now regularly visits two older Islanders through the charity’s scheme.

Speaking about the experience, he said:

“I had hoped that my visits would bring comfort to those I visited, but never dreamed they could be such a benefit to me.

“Seeing other people’s struggles with loneliness and grief made me realise that so many of us face later life challenges, and we’re not alone in feeling like this.

“Age UK Isle of Wight has given me so much in such a short time. Not only am I a befriender, but I have also most certainly been befriended.”

The charity’s befriending services, including its Good Neighbour Scheme and Gift of Friendship programme, aim to support older residents who may be feeling isolated through regular visits and companionship from trained volunteers.

Richard Quigley described it as a “genuine pleasure” to speak with Stephen and praised the work being carried out by volunteers and the charity.

He also encouraged others to consider volunteering, particularly given the Isle of Wight’s ageing population.

Chief Officer Maria Bunce said Stephen’s experience highlighted the positive impact befriending can have for both volunteers and the people they support.

She said volunteers help make the Isle of Wight “a more connected and caring place for older residents”.

Age UK Isle of Wight is currently looking for more volunteers to get involved in its befriending services.

Anyone interested can find out more by contacting the charity on 525282 or via Age UK Isle of Wight