Award-winning volunteer fights loneliness in local community

Bally Barquer, is passionate about helping people following her own past experience with depression and feeling alone.

As a result, she set up Connections 4 Volunteers at the Trust which meets once a month and the Apna Wellness Social group for those in the Sikh community.

Speaking during Loneliness Week (June 10-16), she said: “I want to make a difference and after my experience of bullying and struggling with depression and isolation, I decided to take my own life. I know what it’s like to feel alone and I didn’t want anyone else to experience that.

“Starting these groups has given me a sense of purpose where I hope to continue to inspire others and pass my knowledge on to people in my local community where we can focus on reducing isolation.”

Connections 4 Volunteers started in July 2023 and is an opportunity for members to share their experiences and widen their network within the Trust.

Bally started the Apna Wellness Social group last May when she recognized that members of her community needed support.

She continues to help by organizing regular coffee mornings, supporting Punjabi speakers by teaching them English and being an active member confidante. She also set up an allotment that they can handle.

In 2022, Bally became one of a select 490 volunteers to be recognized as a Platinum Champion for their outstanding contribution as a volunteer for the Queen’s Platinum Jubilee.

She said: “I was overwhelmed by the award – I love my role as a volunteer at the Trust, where I support and advise staff and patients on how to navigate our busy site. This role has helped me build my confidence, give back and make a real difference to people’s lives.”

To join the Apna Wellness Social Connection, please contact Bally via email at [email protected] for more information.

By Hermione Crump – Contributor