Meet Fiona, Volunteer

It’s hard to put your finger on what it is that makes Cunningham House special. Some describe it as a feeling, others say it is the atmosphere while the rest are adamant it is the people.”

Fiona is one of our longest serving volunteers having been first invited to get involved in 1977 when Cunningham House was no more than an architect’s plan. Over the years she has seen the House be constructed and become established as a home for people who want to remain a part of the Pirbright community. She has served on the House and the Executive Committees, and has been a companion and friend to both residents and people who are thinking about making the move to Cunningham House.

With over 40 years’ service under her belt, we asked Fiona what it is about Cunningham House that keeps her volunteering and giving so much of her time. She told us: “I think that the whole original concept cast a spell on me from the outset, and I love a challenge! I have always found it very rewarding to get to know the residents, hear their life stories, learn from them, and give them some of my time. In turn I am sure I have become far more aware and empathic. Old age can mean isolation, boredom and fear for so many, but Cunningham House gives hope and positivity and a feeling of belonging.

“There’s no doubt that things have changed over the years – for example, there is far more emphasis on health and safety than there was 40 years ago! Despite the changes, there is one thing that remains the same and that is the ‘feeling’ of the House. Personally, I put this down to the people who get involved and help keep Cunningham House running as a successful home. They are not motivated by money – they do it because they care about the folks who are here.

“My advice to anybody who is curious about the Cunningham House ‘feeling’ is to come and experience it for yourself. We have regular coffee mornings where you will be made to feel very welcome. If you feel a bit nervous about visiting, then bring a friend and I’ll come too!