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  • Buddies Scheme Highly Commended at Local Awards

    December 19, 2018

    The Cavendish Cancer Care Buddies Scheme has been Highly Commended for the Volunteering Award, at the Sheffield Making a Difference Awards 2018.

    (L-R) Margaret and Debbie – Buddies, Hilary – Volunteer Programme Lead, Amanda – Buddy

    Our Cancer Buddies are a group of trained volunteers who have either had cancer themselves or have cared for someone with cancer. Because they have been in a similar situation, they can understand what it is like to deal with a cancer diagnosis as a patient or as a partner or family member. The usual support is a weekly or fortnightly phone call – alternatively, the buddy and their client meet up for a chat in a public place such as a coffee shop. The volunteers are supported by our highly qualified therapy staff.

    This award recognises that through volunteering people can make an impact on both the delivery of a project and also on the lives of the volunteers. We are delighted to have been Highly Commended for this award when the Buddies Scheme is still very new.

    Cavendish has also received amazing feedback from those who have been paired with a Buddy. The following are quotes from different beneficiaries: a true testament to the value of the scheme.

    “Talking to her literally changed my life, and brought me out of a deep depression.”
    “She has helped me get back to work and cope with all the stress.”
    “She listened to all my moaning and ranting and has been quite brilliant!”
    “I have been able to talk to her in a way that I couldn’t talk to my family.”

    If you want to know more about the Buddy scheme, or are interested in becoming a buddy, contact h.nugent@cavcare.org.uk or call 0114 275 4070.