Make a difference as RVS volunteer

Lunch and social clubs for older people in Lanarkshire run by Royal Voluntary Service are calling for more volunteers to help them grow.

The charity’s popular community-based lunch and social clubs provide regular company and conversation for older people and are supported by funds raised by players of People’s Postcode Lottery.

Clubs rely on teams of dedicated volunteers who organise social activities, prepare, cook and serve refreshments, chat with guests and signpost local services for older people.

Diane Bate, Royal Voluntary Service’s community development and operations manager for Lanarkshire, said: “Our clubs attract many older people each week who enjoy the food, company and atmosphere that our fantastic volunteers help provide thanks to funds raised by players of People’s Postcode Lottery.

“Some of our club users describe them as a lifeline which helps stop them feeling lonely. We want to be able to attract even more older people along which is why we’re looking for more volunteers to help us grow our clubs.

“For anyone with a little spare time that is looking for a way to contribute to the local community, for example people that are recently retired, volunteering is hugely rewarding.”

As well as needing more volunteers to support existing clubs, Royal Voluntary Service is also looking for volunteer co-ordinators and leaders to set up and run new activities for older people in the community. Whether it’s a lunch club, tai chi class or book group or providing companionship to older people in their homes, the charity is looking for local people to put their talents and life experience to valuable use to help grow a network of community groups across Great Britain that improve older people’s lives.

No previous experience is necessary as full training is provided. Royal Voluntary Service will also provide guidance on recruiting volunteers to help, managing money and fundraising and on how to run the activity safely and legally. In return, volunteer co-ordinators can enjoy developing their skills and experience, being part of a team and creating something of lasting value for their community and the people in it.

Diane added: “Our volunteers are community heroes that make a genuine difference to the lives of older people.’’

To find out more contact Diane on diane.bate@ royalvoluntaryservice. org.uk, call on 07736 825294 or visit www. royalvoluntaryservice.org. uk.