By Mencap
Mencap Visiting Service (MVS)
Vince and his Mencap visitor Alan first met on 9 November 2022, almost exactly four years ago.
Since then, their MVS visits have grown into a genuine friendship.
Over the years, they’ve shared lots of different experiences together, from games of golf and watching cricket and football, to pub lunches, curries and café catch-ups. As an Arsenal supporter, Vince also enjoys watching his favourite team play on the big screen at the local pub, preferably with a pint!
But what comes across most when Vince and Alan talk about their friendship isn’t what they do together. It’s how much they enjoy each other’s company.
I like going out with Alan, he is a nice guy. He likes my company, and I like his and we’re always doing different things. I think it’s nice and perfect.
I absolutely LOVE being Vince’s visitor. He is such good company, and we always have lots of fun together. He’s become a great mate.
There have been plenty of memorable moments along the way. A couple of years ago, Alan invited Vince to his local cricket club’s end-of-season celebrations, where Vince was awarded ‘Supporter of the Year’, something he thought was great fun.
As Vince and Alan approach the fourth anniversary of the day they first met, their friendship feels particularly fitting for this year’s Befriending Week theme. Meaningful connections are about supporting each other, enjoying each other’s company and knowing that the friendship matters to both of you.
For some people that might mean a day out or sharing a favourite hobby. For others, it might simply be a cup of tea and a chat. It isn’t what you do together that makes the connection meaningful. It’s the time, friendship and companionship you share.
And perhaps Vince sums up his and Alan’s friendship best: “He likes my company, and I like his.”