Meet Maureen

“Befriending has given me a new purpose in my retirement. I love interacting with the young people - they keep me young!

Meet our amazing volunteer, Maureen, who has been part of the COVEY family for an incredible 13 years!

Over more than a decade, our dedicated volunteer, Maureen, has worn many hats - from one-to-one befriender and mentor to group volunteer with our Young Adult ANGELS in Hamilton. Her journey with COVEY began by supporting a young boy from Primary 7 all the way through to university.

 “I was so proud seeing the first boy I befriended going off to university. I even drove him up to Aberdeen and helped him settle into his room in halls - I was like a proud Granny!”

Since then, Maureen has supported three parents, helping them grow in confidence and independence, and now spends her Tuesdays with the Young Adult ANGELS Hamilton group - a highlight of her week. For the past two years, she’s also been a one-to-one befriender for a 17-year-old, who keeps Maureen up to date on all things fashion!

“She keeps me right with my makeup and has even introduced me to shopping in Primark!”

When asked what makes befriending so rewarding, Maureen reflects:

“All parts of befriending are rewarding in different ways. It’s wonderful to see young people grow in confidence, and to think I’ve played even a small part in that is very special.”

For Maureen, befriending isn’t just about supporting others, it’s also brought new joy and purpose to her own life.

“Befriending has given me a new purpose in my retirement. I love interacting with the young people - they keep me young! I’m always included in their chats and treated like one of them. I feel lucky to have such good relationships with the young people, the volunteers, and our coordinators.”

Volunteering has enriched Maureen’s life in many ways and she encourages people to give volunteering a go, with this advice:

“Just be what you’ve always been good at - listen and be empathetic.”

After 13 years of support, laughter and countless shared experiences, Maureen’s story perfectly captures what COVEY is all about - connection, compassion, and community.

Thank you Maureen for everything you’ve done over an incredible 13 years, and for everything you continue to do for COVEY!