Maggie – Volunteer, Hounslow Allies
Volunteers with Hounslow Allies are ‘independent visitors’ for children in care. We match volunteers and young people and together they plan activities that they will enjoy together, building a trusting befriending relationship along the way.
Maggie* was matched with Mohammed* nearly 3 years ago when Mohammed was eleven. Activities have included visits to the cinema, the Museum of Water and Steam, eating pancakes for lunch, walks along the Thames and ‘free-jumping’. Even when Covid put a stop to meeting up, Maggie continued to stay connected via texting and Skype. Mohammed was moved from one Foster Carer to another, still, Maggie kept in touch, at times travelling long distances to meet up and their friendship continued.
Recently they learned how to use a printing press and made cards for each other that reflected the things they have done together over the years and what their friendship has meant to them (see below).
Maggie is moving away from the area so we will find Mohammed a new Ally if he would like that. Maggie intends to continue volunteering as an Independent Visitor when she has settled into her new town.
Watch the video below to see what people say about being an Ally.
*Names have been changed for privacy reasons.
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Visit the Volunteering Matters website to find out more about Hounslow Allies
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