YOUR HEALTH
OVER the Christmas season and into the New Year, like many of us, I often spend a lot of time thinking about what goals and aspirations I have for the following year.
This year, I’ve spent a lot of time thinking about the strain on public services and the impact of austerity, whether that be the NHS, local resources, leisure facilities, animal welfare – the list goes on!
In many ways we face a period of crisis where the help people need might not be available unless we collectively decide to make a change, and stand up and help. So this year – my plan is to give the gift of time.
The good news is that volunteering is as good for the soul as it is for the community. Some of my fondest memories have come as a volunteer for local sports clubs, church and youth clubs. In a recent United Health Group national survey, 94 per cent of people who volunteered in the last 12 months reported that volunteering had increased their mood.
Eighty per cent felt a greater sense of control over their health, and 96pc felt that volunteering enriched their lives and gave them a sense of purpose. This Christmas and New Year – perhaps we could all consider giving the gift of ‘time’ and find a way to volunteer within our communities. Not only will we make a difference and improve the place we live, not only will we enrich the lives of our neighbours, friends and other local residents, but we will also be happier, healthier, more fulfilled as individuals. To find out more about local volunteering opportunities in Rossendale visit www. rossendale.realltd.co.uk
For volunteering opportunities within the health, fitness and leisure sector, please contact Jodie.Shenton@rltrust.