RECENTLY I’ve read how lonely some young people are.
Two years ago I was introduced by The Royal Voluntary Service to a charming young student called Beki. She was from York and was studying economics at Glasgow University. She came to my flat every Saturday for homemade soup and a sandwich, after which we played Scrabble. We got on really well together and on good weather went away for the day.
On Mother’s Day she gave me a lovely card, and as I’ve never had any children I think you can imagine how it made me feel. Unfortunately she now lives and works in Birmingham.
Loneliness can lead to mental illness. I’ve been there, but fortunately I’m now well. I think it would be a good idea to set up meetings between young people and pensioners.
I’m a volunteer host for foreign students every Wednesday afternoon, and sometimes have a one-to-one meeting in my home.
I’m 78 but I don’t seem to have anything in common with other older people. I love students especially – as well as helping them I learn a lot too.
Janet M Steele
Glasgow
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