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Peter started volunteering with SeeAbility in October 2019, having previously worked as a teacher in a primary school. He wanted a change from working with young children and approached his local volunteer bureau and was told about opportunities at SeeAbility. He wanted to volunteer with someone who was active, and the Seeability Volunteer Coordinator at Leatherhead matched him with Ivan who is partially sighted. They clicked right from the start. Since then, they have gone out walking most Wednesdays.

They initially walked locally around the Leatherhead area, covering about five miles each time, and often stopping off at a café for lunch. Ivan loves the coast and big waves, so together they arranged a trip to Littlehampton, and have since visited Brighton and other nearby seaside towns.  

Ivan celebrated his 80th Birthday in February 2020 at a pub in Leatherhead and he invited along lots of volunteers and friends who had helped support him in his varied activities over the last couple of decades. He introduced Peter as “my new friend.” 

During the first lockdown they were unable to meet, but Peter stayed in touch. He phoned Ivan on Wednesdays and gave him a quiz on clouds and geography which are two of Ivan’s favourite subjects. Ivan’s nickname is the Cloudman, and Peter has since become an expert on clouds!  

His walks with Ivan were able to continue during the later lockdowns as daily exercise but they had to stay local. However, for the last year Peter has been able to resume more walks further afield. Ivan likes anything to do with water and they have been out and about exploring the local rivers such as the Thames, Wey, and Mole, often visiting local cafes to try out the cheese scones (Ivan’s favourite!). Peter sometimes even bakes some himself for Ivan! 

Peter also regularly volunteers with the tandem club on Fridays as a driver and helper. As Ivan sometimes has difficulty with his memory, Peter calls at his flat as soon as he arrives to make sure he is ready and correctly kitted out. Peter sometimes rides the side-by-side bikes, but Ivan has not yet managed to persuade him onto a tandem!   

Peter has found it very rewarding getting to know Ivan and giving him the opportunity to go to places he might otherwise have not been able to go. He has also enjoyed getting to know some the other members of the tandem club and chatting with them over a cup of tea at the refreshment break. 
Peter said: 

"I've really enjoyed volunteering at SeeAbility and I'd really encourage anyone else who's thought about volunteering to give it a go!"

Join our team of volunteers