This month, we’re talking with Richard Wint, one of the longest serving volunteers in our Community Befriending Programme. Last month, Richard received a special award from the High Sheriff of Greater London, Dhruv Patel CBE, in recognition of his dedication to supporting others in his community.
Find out more about our meeting with the High Sheriff!
Can you tell us a bit about yourself?
I was born in Islington but, when I was just over a year old, my parents took me to Jamaica, where I lived until I was seven. When I came back to London, I found I had quite a strong accent.
I grew up in Hackney before later moving to Walthamstow. I come from a small family and have two siblings, although we did not all live together.
I’ve always enjoyed meeting people and trying new things. After leaving school, I went to art college, where I met lots of creative people through music and the arts. Later, I spent six months in Canada helping to care for a relative before moving to Manchester.
Over the years, I’ve had all sorts of jobs. I worked as a chef at one point, and later ran my own printing business in Covent Garden. Looking back, I’ve always seen myself as a businessman. Even when I was young, I enjoyed taking responsibility and building relationships with people.
What did you do before volunteering with LifeLine?
Most of my career was in printing. I started out delivering for a printing company and got to know many of the customers. As time went on, I learned more about the business and eventually started my own company.
We worked with radio stations, record labels, and media companies, producing flyers and promotional materials. I enjoyed meeting people and finding ways to help them.
How did you get involved with LifeLine's Community Befriending Programme?
I was walking through Walthamstow one day when somebody stopped me and handed me a flyer. He said, “I’m not trying to sell you anything, but I’d like you to come along.”
Something about that conversation stayed with me, so I decided to attend. Not long afterwards, I became the first volunteer on the befriending programme.
I’ve always been open to new opportunities. Helping people has always felt like part of my purpose, so volunteering was a natural step for me.
What do you enjoy most about befriending?
It’s all about helping and uplifting people. Seeing somebody feel better after a conversation gives me a great sense of purpose. I enjoy bringing positive energy to the group and encouraging others.
I’ll admit the award was a surprise, because I never volunteered for recognition. I do it because I genuinely enjoy helping people and making a difference where I can.
What impact do you think the programme has on the community?
It’s clear the programme means a lot to people. For some, especially those with limited mobility, a phone call or visit may be one of the few meaningful conversations they have during the week. Staying connected helps people feel valued and less alone.
Over time, I’ve seen just how much people appreciate someone taking the time to check in with them and listen.
You've faced some health challenges yourself. How do you stay positive?
I try to focus on what I can do rather than what I can’t. Having a positive outlook helps me keep moving forward. Everybody faces challenges in life, but I’ve always believed that your attitude can make a big difference.
What have you learned through volunteering?
I’ve learned that many people are carrying struggles that others cannot see.
In the past, communities often felt more connected. Today, many people can feel isolated, even when surrounded by others. Volunteering has reminded me how important it is to look out for one another. Sometimes a simple conversation can have a bigger impact than people realise.
What would you say about LifeLine?
The staff have been excellent. They’ve always been supportive, welcoming and appreciative of the volunteers who give their time.
It’s clear that everyone is working towards the same goal of helping people and strengthening the community.
How would you describe yourself in a few words?
Positive, open minded and always willing to help. And if you asked the people I support, I hope they’d say I’m somebody who genuinely cares.