A penpal service to help people stay connected to the RAF has been launched by the Association.
An extension of the existing RAF Association Connections for Life service, it will support people who may not be comfortable with telephone friendship.
Sam Squire, Connections Manager said:
“For some beneficiaries and volunteers, telephone contact is not always suitable. Perhaps a person’s hearing, speech or confidence affects their ability to communicate and interact over the phone. This new service allows beneficiaries to remain connected by exchanging regular letters with a volunteer who shares similar interests or who simply enjoys writing to stay in touch. A hand-written letter or postcard through the post can really brighten someone’s day and make a real difference; providing a vital link for someone who is lonely and isolated.”
RAF Association volunteers are already waiting to take part, with pens poised.
Sam Squire continued:
“Studies have shown that writing letters can also encourage other positive benefits. While handwritten letters may not always fully replace sitting opposite someone for a conversation; there is an element of deeper connection. Writing can encourage mindfulness and allow someone to process feelings and emotions in different ways. Thoughts can be focused and the creative expression involved boosts mood and reduces stress. The process of writing or typing our words on paper can even aid brain cognition and function.”
To find out more about receiving a letter regularly from a pen-pal, please call 0800 018 2361 or email: [email protected].
Connections for Life
Loneliness affects tens of thousands of people across the RAF community. Whether it’s a veteran struggling to adapt to life after service, or a family member facing difficulties alone, loneliness can be devastating to people’s mental and physical health. Our volunteers are at the heart of the service as they provide one-to-one, personalised conversation, vital friendship and support via telephone and digital initiatives. The positive impact our volunteers have on the RAF community is huge and is shown through the wonderful responses from our beneficiaries.
