Take a LEAP and be a volunteer
Over-50s project appeals for help in Stonehouse
A befriending and handyperson service for the elderly is looking for new volunteers in Stonehouse.
The service is operated by South Lanarkshire charity LEAP - Lightburn Elderly Association Project - which provides practical assistance to people over 50 who are experiencing difficulties due to their physical or mental health.
The LEAP Hands On Project aims to help combat loneliness, isolation and help people feel safer in their own homes.
Peter Ramsay, newly-appointed volunteer development officer for the Stonehouse area, said: “LEAP currently has over 180 volunteers working across South Lanarkshire, and we couldn’t do it without them. Their efforts and dedication make everything we do at LEAP possible.
“However we are keen to provide the same service in the Stonehouse area and need volunteers to make that happen. Support from volunteers can be as little or as often as they can manage, even one hour every week.
“Full training is provided and out of pocket expenses such as travel costs are paid to all volunteers. We match volunteers with those using our befriending service based on similar interests and this can be as simple as meeting in a client’s house to have a chat, cuppa and watch a game show on television.
“Our Handyperson project is designed to assist those who are not able with odd jobs around the house such as changing light bulbs, building flat pack furniture and hanging curtain poles.
“Volunteering not only enhances the lives of those on the receiving end of our services but also the volunteers who gain a lot from giving their time for others.”
Anyone interested in volunteering can contact Peter directly on 0141 641 5169. Find out more about volunteering on LEAP’S website www.leap-project.co.uk or on Facebook and Twitter.