What it means to win a Self Management Award

As we spread the word about this year's Self Management Awards, Margaret shares her experience of winning one of last year's top accolades.

What it means to me to volunteer

When I lost my job due to my hearing loss, I was of course upset at ending my working life in that way.  I just thought: “What now, what will I do!!”

I saw an advert in my local charity shop asking for volunteers, so I popped in to ask more.  I was delighted to be accepted.  I told the manageress that I had hearing loss, but she said that would not be a problem.  I walked home feeling a sense of achievement.

I attended lipreading classes and our tutor invited people to give talks.  At one of the talks we were asked if we would consider counselling, I wasn’t sure it was for me but eventually decided to give it a go.  I realised that was exactly what I needed, so I could learn to come to terms with losing my hearing and grieve for my loss..  At the end of our sessions the tutor asked if I had heard of Hearing Link, a charity that supports people with hearing loss.  She thought I would benefit from attending its Self- Management Programme which offered support, advice and information about accessing assistive listening equipment.  At the end of the programme, I was asked if I would like to be a volunteer with them.  After giving it some thought I decided I would give it a go.  Using my own experiences of living with hearing loss, and all the challenges I faced, would hopefully help others in the same position.

I have volunteered with Hearing Link for eight years and started out writing blogs for their website. I have travelled all over the country helping at their various programmes. I am also a Community Support Volunteer, attend events, mentor new volunteers, and volunteer at the Hearing Aid Liaison Outreach (HALO) project at Edinburgh’s audiology department.

I really enjoy my time as a volunteer by being able to connect with people that are going through difficult times as a result of their hearing loss.  Through volunteering I share my own experiences of coping with the challenges I face, offer support to beneficiaries and help them find appropriate equipment and encourage them to attend our group programmes which also supports their family and friends as well.

It is always wonderful to see the difference attending one of our programmes makes to them.  They leave feeling more confident in dealing with their hearing loss, more informed and supported.

Self Management Award

When Hearing Link told me that they were nominating me for The Alliance Self- Management Champion 2019 award, I was just amazed.  When I decided to become a volunteer I never thought of winning awards; I just wanted to help others. I get a lot of satisfaction in doing this.  I love to see the difference the support Hearing Link gives to people and seeing them find ways of living well with their hearing loss.

I was further surprised and delighted to win the award.  I felt valued and needed and that is why volunteering is so worthwhile.

I was also delighted for Hearing Link, as they are a wonderful organisation.  The award was as much for them, as me.

Self Managing

When my hearing deteriorated and daily life was becoming more difficult I just wasn’t sure where to turn.  I decided to get help and advice, and to learn how to self-manage. I had to find new ways to cope, be proactive and make people aware of my needs.  By putting all these coping strategies in place, I felt a sense of achievement and gained more confidence.

Keeping up with social events is essential for our wellbeing, so I made sure that I stayed in touch with my family and friends who were a great support to me.

Find out more about the Self Management Awards 2020

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