What is it like to be a Compassionate Friend?

Abenaa Gyamfuah-Assibey, Community Development Worker at St Luke’s Hospice Plymouth, speaks to Val Davey in Kingsbridge and her Compassionate Friend, Jo Gregory, about what it’s like for them to be a part of the Compassionate Community.

A Compassionate Friend is someone who looks out for others and ‘makes a difference’ to those with a life limiting illness or affected by loss. There’s no limit to the ways in which you can do this but essentially, it’s about lending a helping hand or a friendly ear.

A Compassionate Friend is not a professional counsellor or health expert, but a good listener who shows their neighbour, friend or peer they care.
From stopping by for a cup of tea or a chat to helping with shopping or a few chores, simple but heartfelt gestures help people stay connected to friends and the community.

Through awareness sessions provided by St Luke’s, a Compassionate Friend learns a little bit more about how taking the time to LEND a helping hand or friendly ear can make a difference and then turns that understanding into action – anyone can be a Compassionate Friend.

[rebekahbridges-tervydis]

Lovely. As the generations gets older, we really need to turn our attention to them. Like listen, lifts, shopping. Just lovely.