If there's an issue that's likely to touch all our lives and one point or another, it's loneliness. Of course, the tricky thing about loneliness is it can't be resolved in isolation, almost by definition. That's where Archway come in. Since 1982, The Archway Foundation has been committed to helping those affected by loneliness in Oxfordshire. Last week, I went to the Archway offices to meet with CEO Sheila Furlong. She kindly answered the following questions:
Could you tell us a bit about Archway and the work you do?Over 9 million people in the UK – almost a fifth of the population – say they are always or often lonely, and its effects include deterioration in mental and physical health as well as emotional distress. With a small staff team and a large group of trained and dedicated volunteers, Archway is a key source of support to thousands of people in and around the Oxford area who are struggling with loneliness or isolation.
By offering a pathway of support that includes Telephone Support, Individual Support face-to-face, Small Supportive Social Groups and invitations to Social and Fundraising events, we help relieve the distress associated with loneliness and support people to connect with others.
How has Archway evolved since first opening its doors over forty years ago?
From its inception Archway’s values of treating everyone with respect, of showing compassion and empathy, seeing the potential in everyone and being a good steward of limited resources, have remained the same. The practical outworking of these has developed over time as we respond to the needs presented to us and listen to the voices of those who use of our service as well as those who volunteer, work with, or support us. The telephone support implemented in response to the pandemic was described as a lifeline by many of its recipients and its impact demonstrated the need to incorporate it into our post-pandemic service as a means of supporting and encouraging those who are not ready for face-to-face contact.
How can the public help? What are the most effective ways to get involved?
Volunteering is a great way to build skills and confidence, meet new people and give back to the local community. There are opportunities to give an hour a fortnight to provide telephone support to someone, or 3 hrs a month to provide individual support face-to-face or within a small group. We also need car owner/drivers to transport people to and from a social group once a month. We provide excellent training and support and pay travel expenses. Like all charities we need to raise funds to maintain our services to people in need and we are keen to hear from anyone interested in doing a sponsored activity, organising a fund-raising event or wanting to be part of our fund-raising group. For those wishing to donate follow this link.
What makes Archway special?
Archway Friends and volunteers are the best people to answer this question.
Edna (not her real name) writes, “Archway has given me a wonderful experience. The volunteers are caring and lovely, religiously in contact with me during Covid. I found this so beneficial. The social group is so important for me to meet other people feeling the same - that in itself doesn’t make you feel so alone. The hard work Archway has devoted to people like me can never be ignored or forgotten. It is the only charity I’ve been privileged to be a part of. A big thank you for everything.”
“I have enjoyed volunteering with Archway for many years and feel that this has played a significant role in my well-being and ability to live life to the full. Opportunities to meet and interact with people from diverse backgrounds, with varied life experiences, has been invaluable. The support provided by Archway staff through encouragement, example and training opportunities has been very important in building my confidence. It has had an impact outside of Archway in work, personal and social settings. I am very glad to have this volunteering opportunity.” (Chris, Volunteer)
What are your hopes for Archway for the rest of 2023?
I hope that we will continue to witness individuals making progress, moving through the pathway of support to a point where they have less need of Archway and can engage with and contribute to their local community.
I also hope that we will attract and train more volunteers to enable us to meet the continuous demand for our services and raise sufficient income to maintain and develop our services to enable us to continue tackling loneliness one conversation at a time.
If you'd like to find out more about Archway and how you can help, check out their latest opportunities here.