
Doris is an older lady with cancer and mental health issues. When her problems were exacerbated by a leak in her kitchen, the SVP helped on both a practical and personal level, improving her living circumstances and health.
After finding her kitchen filled with leaking pipes and electrical problems Doris felt increasingly isolated and hopeless. Having written to many charities for help without success, Doris's request was finally picked up by SVP members Mary and Tim.
Mary talked to Doris about her mental health issues and anxieties. Tim helped Doris to sort out the plumbing and electric problems.
On a practical level Tim was able to help by talking to the water company and getting them to agree to reduce Doris's bills. On a personal level, Mary discovered Doris love of singing and helped her to join a local choir. She became a regular participant and made new friends.
A few months later, Doris wrote to Tim and Mary, expressing her heartfelt thanks at all they had done for her. She wrote: ‘Your intervention has meant I have experienced a complete improvement of circumstances and health. Further good news I received from St Thomas’ hospital: my cancer is now in remission so this is a further call for celebration.' A little practical help quite literally gave Doris a new lease of life.