Ecas offers the chance for physically disabled adults to have more social connection via our long-established Befriending Service.
To highlight some of the benefits to our service users and volunteers alike, we’d like to celebrate that TJ and Heather have been meeting up on a weekly basis for more than a year now!
When Heather met TJ
For Heather, complex health challenges can make getting out and about independently difficult at times, so it was excellent to get this lovely bit of feedback in the Spring:
TJ and I went to the ‘Neighbourgood Market’ today and had Wholly Waffles! It’s lovely and warm and it’s a few hours out of the house that I wouldn’t have been able to do without TJ! – Heather
When she first got in touch to volunteer with Ecas, TJ wanted to put her experience of community service to good use in a new environment by getting to know someone new. Heather was looking to gain confidence and develop her casual relationship and social skills, and to meet a friend to talk to.
A good match
TJ and Heather were matched up in July 2023 based on common interests such as anime!
Since then, they have enjoyed chatting at home, exploring crafts and playing board games together, as well as getting weepy over a good movie. They’re always trying something different, like going to places to enjoy world cuisine, and recently went to a performance at the Edinburgh Fringe Festival – ‘Murder She Didn’t Write’.
There’s lots of laughter and we talk while doing some of our favourite activities. – TJ
In recent months they’ve been down to a local café to play board games and have a drink, which provides a good opportunity for Heather to stretch her legs.
We trust each other, and I’ve been able to walk to the local café with her as well as using my wheelchair for other trips out. It’s been really good to get some independence and get out on our own, trying to do more. I can talk to her about life without worrying about outside connections. – Heather
By volunteering with Ecas, TJ has learned about how some conditions can affect people, but also how they don’t have to stop someone from having fun and expressing their individuality.
She smiles a lot, and I like that. I have gained a friend. – TJ
Want to give befriending a go?
Live in Edinburgh and interested in being a Ecas Befriender? Become a Volunteer Befriender by getting in touch with Ecas today. If you have a couple of free hours per week, you can get to know someone in your community who could do with some extra company.
Full training and expenses are provided.
Get in touch with Ecas today to find out more!
Speak with Sam on 07825 305 376
Email sam@ecas.scot
Visit Becoming a Befriender for more information.