Legacy
Legacy
Please note: this post is 65 months old and The Cares Family is no longer operational. This post is shared for information only
We first met Kathy, 74, in November on Penny Lane. Her vibrant personality (and hair!) were not to be forgotten in a hurry. She came along to our first ever social club, and jokes that we haven’t been able to get rid of her ever since! We caught up with her to find out what she loves about our city and the friends she has made at Liverpool Cares.
How long have you lived in Liverpool?
I’ve been here for 16 years now. Before this I lived in London for 33 years, and I’m originally from Scotland. We moved to Liverpool when my husband retired, because my daughter is a teacher here.
The people here are the warmest, friendliest and funniest people I’ve ever known! People are so family- oriented here too, I think that’s special.
Where is your favourite spot in Liverpool?
I go to the cinema every week to see a new film, even if it’s something I don’t even want to go and see! I love shopping too, but my favourite place is the Albert Dock. I would go there with my husband.
What did you do for a living?
I worked in an office until I had the children. After that I stayed at home with the kids, which is a full time job in itself! Then I was a home carer for the elderly – I really loved that job.
Why did you get involved with Liverpool Cares? What would you say to anyone thinking about getting involved?
I was railroaded! No, I’m joking of course. I felt like I needed to get out of my comfort zone. My husband passed 4 years ago, and my life changed a lot. My life revolved around the TV of an evening, and I didn’t get much chance to meet new people. I’d never been on my own, and I just missed being part of a group. I’d say go for it – it’s been life- changing.
What do you enjoy most about Liverpool Cares?
I enjoy meeting new people of all ages. I’m doing things that I wouldn’t normally do, and seeing places I wouldn’t normally see.
What has been your favourite Social Club?
I really enjoyed the Singalong and I like the Pub Clubs because you can just sit and have a glass of wine and a good chat with people. I like the more sociable ones like that. Although the Planetarium and the Old Dock Tour were really interesting too. I keep remembering more now that I’m thinking about it! At the Planetarium, I learned so much. I came away with so much new information! The man who was showing us around was really knowledgeable, it’s great to be able to talk to someone like that.
What is the best thing about being involved with Liverpool Cares?
It has really taken me out of my comfort zone. I would never usually go out in the evenings, I was in my pyjamas by 6 o’clock! I used to find it hard to walk into a room full of people I didn’t know, I would struggle with that. Now I sit and talk to new people every week, it’s great.
Have you recommended the social clubs to anyone?
Yes! I’ve been raving about it to everyone who will listen.
Do you have any similarities or things in common with the younger people that you have met?
More than you’d imagine. We watch lots of the same programmes, I absolutely love Game of Thrones. I really like alternative comedy. There are lots of book readers, and I love reading. I’ve met people with the same taste in books and authors as me. I don’t notice the age difference at all – I get on better with younger people because I forget I’m actually 74 sometimes. I still feel the same as I did when I was younger.
Finally, who would you invite to your dream dinner party?
It would have to be a man! I love clever men, I’ve always had a secret crush on Jeremy Paxman. I’d invite him.