Blesma Member Lorraine Anderson has taken up her new role as the Association’s inaugural Widows’ Representative and will represent the interests of the Association’s Widows and Widowers.
Lorraine, a former hospital ward sister from the north of Scotland, was elected at last year’s Annual General Meeting and will work closely with the Board of Trustees to represent the interests and concerns of bereaved Members.
“Blesma Widows now account for about a quarter of our membership, and the Board of Trustees wanted to hear from them, which is why Lorraine’s role was created,” says Blesma Chief Executive Vivienne Buck.
Having joined Blesma after the loss of her husband, George – a former RAF officer – in 2019, Lorraine found strength and purpose in the community during the isolation of Covid. Now, she gives back by hosting online quizzes and actively participating in Blesma events.
“I want Widows to get the best experience from Blesma and to feel as though they can contribute to helping other Members. I see it as developing the family aspect of the Association. When my husband died, I got a lot from being part of the Association, and I want that feeling to radiate around Blesma’s Widows.
With a focus on fostering social integration and combating loneliness, Lorraine’s new role marks a vital step in ensuring Blesma continues to serve all its Members with compassion and inclusion.
