Jo's Story

Jo is in her early-60s and lives near Birmingham. She has had physical disabilities since birth due to cerebral palsy. She is unable to speak or walk and communicates with a letter board and light. Two CSV full-time volunteers are on hand around the clock to help meet her care needs.

Jo says:

“CSV volunteers have helped me to live independently since 1980. They do what I cannot do for myself. Some of them have become really good friends – I am still in touch with both girls who started 27 years ago! My current volunteers take me on shopping trips. I enjoy helping Eun Ji with her English and Janet, my second volunteer, has a wicked sense of humour.”

CSV full-time volunteers are also invaluable to those closest to Jo. For her husband John, they provide a lifeline:

“I can’t imagine life without CSV volunteers. When I go out to work, I know that one of them is always there for Jo.”

“It really is a partnership. Volunteers bring with them enthusiasm, warmth, care, fun, and conversation: they work hard and generously, and our life is so much richer because of them. In return, I think we give good experiences, friendship, and support. They know that what they do is really essential and worthwhile. And always in the background is the support of CSV itself.”

To find out more about choosing CSV volunteers as part of your Personal Care Package, call us today on 01223 728 460 or email choices@csv.org.uk