In the spotlight today is our kind-hearted compliance, legal and governance expert, Paloma Robinson. Paloma, is a lawyer specialising in Employment law. Originally hailing from Bath, Paloma is now a proud resident of Battersea, London. In the brief Q&A below, she tells us how she’s witnessed the unequivocal impact of human connection on our mental and physical health and touches on the power of intergenerational friendships for learning and growth:
CareDogs: Can you tell us about a time when loneliness has affected you, and what you tried to do to overcome it?
Paloma: “When I was a teenager, my Spanish grandmother became very unwell and came to live with us at our family home in Bath. It was an extremely lonely time for her, leaving her life in a Spanish village in the mountains and moving to Bath. Every time we went back to Spain with my grandmother she gained a new lease on life. It became apparent just how important these relationships in her Spanish community were to her health!”
CareDogs: What makes you so passionate about helping older people combat loneliness?
Paloma: “Having seen what a difference staying connected can make to people's health and well-being, it's something I really want to facilitate.”
CareDogs: Volunteering and intergenerational friendships are at the heart of everything we do. Why do you think it’s important for younger and older people to support each other?
Paloma: “I like the idea of the younger and older generation supporting each other because I think both parties have a huge amount to teach the other!”
CareDogs: They say a dog is a man’s best friend. How has the power of pawsitivity shown up for you?
Paloma: “Dogs are brilliant and love you no matter what. Oscar has taught me loyalty and friendship. He really has been the best friend.”
CareDogs: At CareDogs, we aim to boost the mental health and wellbeing of the people and communities we support. What small steps do you take regularly to stay happy and healthy?
Paloma: “The three things I prioritise for my mental health and wellbeing are physical exercise, getting outside in nature and a good night's sleep.”
CareDogs: What do you enjoy most about volunteering for CareDogs?
Paloma: “I love working together as part of a team to create a better community.”
Our special thanks to Paloma for sharing her thoughts on all things kindness, compassion and community! Each month we speak to one of our volunteers to get to know them better. Follow us on Facebook, Instagram or subscribe to our newsletter to keep up to date.