By Isle of Wight Observer
A special day for the first recipient of Age UK Isle of Wight’s ‘Gift of Friendship’ service has highlighted the value of connection, kindness, and community support.
Barry, who was born on the Island but spent much of his life on the mainland and abroad, had become isolated following the loss of his wife.
Through the charity’s ‘Gift of Friendship’ programme, part of its Good Neighbour Scheme, he was matched with a volunteer who helped him begin going out more, rebuilding confidence, and reconnecting with others.
Barry later started attending Age UK IW’s ‘Chatty Brew’ events, which he came to enjoy. During one visit, he shared a lifelong wish – to see an owl up close.
His love of owls dated back to his time working as an aeronautical engineer, including at Boscombe Down, where he watched owls nesting high in the hangars and flying out, but never had the chance to see one closely.
When Barry told his volunteer how much owls meant to him, the information was passed on to the Age UK IW team and his family.
Together, they arranged the experience. With support from Barry’s family, who paid for the visit, and help from The Falconry Experience IW, Barry spent an afternoon at home meeting three owls – Rebel, Penny, and Shadow. He said: “When you’ve dreamed of something for ever and ever and it comes true, you just can’t believe it.
“That’s made my day. Absolutely.”
Joe Hodgkinson, from Age UK IW, said Barry’s story showed what ‘Gift of Friendship’ was all about, helping people feel more connected, supported, and able to enjoy life again.
Mal Butler 
Tilly Walder