Volunteer Centre issues appeal for new recruits
Additional help is needed in 2020 for specific projects
SHEPSHED Volunteer Centre is appealing for people to come forward and join its team of volunteers in 2020.
The charity, based on Charnwood Road in Shepshed, provides several scheme to help the vulnerable and isolated residents of Shepshed to get out and about, meet people and help out on their gardens.
Centre manager Angie Whitmore said they currently had about 60 active volunteers who fulfil many roles at the centre but are looking for more in a number of areas. Drivers
Angie said: “Our drivers collect local residents form their home and take them to their appointment. This could be the doctors, dentist, hairdressers or anywhere they need to go and are unable to get there themselves. We also now drive to our local hospitals as required. We make a small charge for this based on the average mileage to their destination.
“If you drive for us, you can expect to receive 45p per mile towards your expenses paid directly into your account
You can choose how often you volunteer for us and how far you go. You will receive support and help from the office staff and volunteers.
“You will need to have insurance in place for volunteer driving (usually agreed at no extra cost with your insurers) and you will need to have an enhanced DBS check and a car with a valid MOT and Tax.”
Gardeners:
Angie said: “Our gardeners visit local homes and garden for those unable to garden for themselves and with no one else to garden for them. We maintain what is already in place weeding and mowing for our clients from April to October. We do not charge for this service, though donations to the centre are gratefully received.
“If you garden for us, you would be working in a team or two or more. You are not expected to do any heavy gardening work.
“We have a large quantity of tools and equipment which are provided along with gloves if required and we do not work at height over two steps on a ladder.”
Befriending:
Angie said: “Our befrienders visit people in their own homes or, if they are mobile, may go out for a coffee. These visits are usually regular (weekly or biweekly) and involve becoming a regular friend to chat about anything past or present. If you befriend for us, you can expect to be matched with someone with similar interests
“You will get support and advise from the volunteer centre. If you are travelling, you will be paid expenses at 45p per mile and you will need to have an enhanced DBS check.”
Jigsaw library volunteer:
Angie said: “Our jigsaw library runs every Friday at Shepshed library between 10am – 12pm and is staffed by volunteers on a rota basis each week. Jigsaws are available to buy or hire.
Wellbeing Garden volunteers:
Angie said: “Based at the rear of Shepshed Volunteer, our garden is there for anyone with additional needs including disabilities and poor mental health. We host regular sessions on Thursday mornings and Wednesday afternoons once a month. These include gardening, crafting and have a social get together. We are looking for volunteers to help with these sessions as well as help regularly maintain the garden and its outbuildings.”
• If you feel you are able to volunteer in any way, or
would like to hear more about our services, please contact Angie or speak to any of the office volunteers on 01509 508040 between 9am -12pm Monday to Friday. Alternatively you can email shepshed@jscharnwood. org.uk.