Patricia, who is 86, was matched with volunteer call companion Charles six months ago.  She has suffered ill health since contracting tuberculosis at fourteen. But that has not prevented her from campaigning all her life. 

“When I became ill as a child, I decided that I wanted to save the world,” she said. “And that’s what I’ve tried to do in my own way.” 

Over the years Patricia has worked with former Vauxhall Labour MP, Baroness Hoey, helping establish specialist sexual assault referral centres in London and improving conditions at young offenders’ institutions. She also volunteered to help on AIDS wards when few people wanted to help nurse those who were seriously ill and dying. 

“I’ve never been afraid of speaking out or taking on a challenge,” said Patricia, who has been alone since husband of 32 years, Patrick, died.  

“I suppose it all started when my father used to take me to visit troops who had been wounded in the Second World War. I was only six, but I would sing and dance for them while they recuperated in hospital. 

“I can’t get out so much now, so I love the calls with Charles. We talk about anything and everything and we learn from each other. It’s absolutely fantastic. 

“It’s really important to have a chat with someone. It’s the human contact that is so vital.” 

Charles, a semi-retired businessman, has followed in the footsteps of his mother who also volunteers for an older person’s befriending service. 

“I felt it was something I could do, and I wanted to help in some way so the Re-engage call companion service seemed a good fit. I get great satisfaction from the calls and feel I’m delivering a benefit to Patricia. 

“She’s very effervescent and a generous person. She’s had an extremely busy life and has got involved in all kinds of things. Our calls are always interesting. 

“I think Patricia finds the calls very valuable and I intend to carry on with them for as long as possible.”