A BODYGUARD to the stars is among the volunteers who give up their time to support people with learning disabilities locally for the charity Hft.

During Volunteers’ Week this week the charity celebrated the contribution from such volunteers.

Alexander Pennington, from Newton Abbot, is a private security expert and managing director of Protectus, a premium private protection and security business.

The 39-year-old now volunteers one afternoon a week through the Hft buddy scheme. He spends time with 53-year-old Karl Addison, taking part in activities from dog walks and map reading to a visit to a local fire station.

-Activity

The buddy scheme matches people supported by the charity with volunteers with similar interests, allowing them to access new activities, build relationships and spend time in their communities.

‘People specify what activity they’re interested in and the charity advertises for the volunteer position to recruit someone with similar interests.

Alexander started his career in the military and worked around the world as a bodyguard to A-list celebrities. He said he first looked into volunteering when he realised he had the time and life experience to give back to the community where he was raised.

A friend with a son supported by Hft recommended the charity and Alexander was introduced to Karl.

Alexander said: ‘My father used to volunteer so I was keen to follow in his footsteps and make a positive contribution locally.

‘It’s been great getting to know Karl – even though we haven’t known each other long, we have a really good laugh together.

‘If anyone is thinking about volunteering, I would definitely recommend it.

‘The buddy scheme is a great opportunity to spend time with someone who shares similar interests.’

Lifeblood

Hft offers various opportunities for volunteering, including corporate volunteering, fundraising and the buddy scheme. Volunteers can make a difference to the lives of people with learning disabilities, while also gaining confidence, skills and new friendships as a result.

Lorna Bird, of Hft, said: ‘Volunteers are the lifeblood of initiatives like our buddy scheme, which unites people with similar interests and couldn’t run without people like Alexander.

‘We’re delighted our volunteers choose to give up their valuable time to Hft and are always looking for more people to join us in supporting people with learning disabilities to live the best life possible.’