A Lisburn woman has spent eight years volunteering as a befriender with the South Eastern Health and Social Care Trust, forming a lasting friendship with a widow she visits regularly.

Pauline Millar, a retired GP receptionist, joined the Trust's Befriending Service after seeing leaflets at her former workplace. She was matched with the woman, and their connection has become a lifeline.

The service aims to reduce loneliness and social isolation among people aged 65 and over through telephone calls and home visits. Millar said she had not realised the extent of need for simple companionship until she started.

She encourages others to volunteer, saying that a knock at the door can transform an older person's day.

Health Development Specialist Rachel O'Reilly said volunteers play an extremely important role in tackling loneliness, and feedback from service users describes the connection as life-changing.

The Trust is seeking more volunteers; inquiries can be sent to volunter@setrust.hscni.net.