An Oxfordshire resident who is unable to leave her home has been recognised for her long-standing commitment to supporting elderly people in her community.
Jo Doherty has dedicated more than 26 years to Age UK Oxfordshire’s telephone befriending programme, providing companionship to isolated older people throughout the county.
Her contributions were acknowledged at the BBC Radio Oxford Make a Difference Awards, where she received the Volunteer Award in one of eight categories that celebrate individuals making meaningful improvements to life in Oxfordshire.
Following early retirement from nursing due to health reasons in 2000, Ms Doherty began her role as a Phone Friend with the charity.
Despite her own housebound status, she maintained regular contact with elderly residents and significantly increased her efforts during the coronavirus pandemic to support additional individuals experiencing loneliness.
Ms Doherty expressed her gratitude for the recognition, noting that remaining confined to her home does not prevent her from continuing her volunteer work.
She described how the role has provided her with purpose and an opportunity to contribute positively to others’ lives.
Age UK Oxfordshire’s chief executive Paul Ringer commended Ms Doherty for her unwavering dedication over more than two and a half decades, highlighting that her consistent telephone support offers comfort and connection to vulnerable older people even during challenging personal circumstances.
The organisation celebrated her as a source of inspiration to staff and volunteers alike.
The Phone Friends initiative connects trained volunteers with elderly individuals seeking regular social interaction, working to alleviate isolation and maintain community ties.
Ms Doherty has indicated her intention to persist with her volunteering activities for as long as her circumstances allow, continuing to offer support and companionship to those who require it.