The Joy Of Helping Others

We speak to three women who have found real fulfilment and purpose in volunteering...

- MICHELE O'CONNOR

"Life is about helping people"

Hawa Maniyar (53), a married mum of five from Kirklees, Yorkshire, works as a lunchtime supervisor at a local junior school and began volunteering nine years ago.

"When my husband was in a spinal injury unit for months, following a serious car accident in 2010, I noticed several patients had very few visitors," explains Hawa. "Coming from a large family and close-knit community, I was surprised that many patients were so isolated."

So when her sister, Fazila, mentioned the Royal Voluntary Service were recruiting volunteers for a shopping service, Hawa decided to find out more. "She basically said that I had no excuse not to volunteer as I only work until lunchtime!"

During an informal chat over a cuppa, Hawa was asked how she'd like to help.

"I was matched with John (71), who, like my husband, was a wheelchair user after having his leg amputated in 2005. He rarely left the house and with no family, was struggling alone as his only visitors were district nurses."

Hawa began doing John's weekly shopping. "On the way to the supermarket I pay his bills at the post office then put the groceries away on my return. He has a list ready for me, but can also text me if he's forgotten anything."

Over the years they have become firm friends, and she has helped him replace his broken fridge freezer and order new clothes.

"Because of his amputated leg, John has to wear one leg as a short. It's no trouble for me to cut off the fabric and alter his trousers and pyjamas, but it makes a big difference to him."

When she couldn't get an answer one day, Hawa dialled 999 and John was discovered on the floor, having fallen the day before.

"I was the only visitor he had in hospital. He was so happy to see me."

Volunteering has also helped her to understand other people's needs.