This afternoon I met the volunteer coordinator from Southwark Disablement Association (SDA) with one of her colleagues. They run a scheme that links volunteers with disabled people who need extra help. This time it was my turn to stand them up. I’d forgotten about the appointment and gone round to Leftwing Idiot’s. Fortunately they were able to meet us there instead.

I explained the difficulties I’m having with walking and Leftwing Idiot described the sort of help he gives me when we’re out and about.

The volunteer coordinator and her colleague were friendly but I’m not sure they’re going to be able to help. They were understandably concerned about me dropping to the floor and the risk this could pose to a volunteer. She’s going to speak to her line manager and get back to me.

Leftwing Idiot and I talked about it after they’d gone. We’ve both worked with disabled people for many years and know about assessing support needs and risk. He said, “It’s one thing me and you muddling along, but as soon as you put it in a professional context it’s entirely different.” I think he’s probably right. We’ll see if they get back to me.