Giles is all set for Mission Kindness
Timebank coordinator’s 28-day challenge
A coordinator at Tay Valley Timebank has pledged to deliver cheer and lend a helping hand to the communities of Highland Perthshire.
As lockdown continues and the weeks turn into months, Giles Conisbee, who works as a coordinator at the Timebank, has pledged to complete a ‘28 days of kindness challenge’.
Tay Valley Timebank covers the valley communities of Logierait to Strathtay and Grandtully through to Aberfeldy and on to Kenmore and Glenlyon.
Giles started the kindness campaign - mainly to reach those in Highland Perthshire feeling lonely and isolated in these dismal times - on Monday, February 1.
“I was reflecting on the ongoing pandemic and that these coming weeks might be the hardest yet,” Giles told the PA.
“And mindful about what I could do in my community to help the situation, I came up with the idea. It coincided nicely with reading a quote from Dame Anita Roddick, who is the founder of the Body Shop and a founding patron of timebanking.
“Anita said ‘we are all optimists and activists at a timebank.’ So I hatched a ‘be kind’ plan and resolved to take action to make it happen.
“To that end I’ll be performing, delivering or doing random (or not-so-random) acts of kindness throughout Highland Perthshire each and every day in February.
“It’s definitely a challenge, especially given the current restrictions. However, I’m getting plenty of ideas and advice from my colleagues at the Tay Valley Timebank, and especially from my wife and kids.
“I’m particularly focused on reducing isolation and loneliness, connecting with neighbours and seeking ways in which I can lend a helping hand.
“I’m also hoping to inspire others to do a little, or as much as they like.
“Perhaps readers could make a wee resolution to take the time to get to know and help perhaps five of their neighbours? Whatever you can do to help spread kindness and bring joy to your friends, families and people in your communities will make a difference. This feels vital, now, more than ever.
“Working with the timebank volunteers is an absolute joy. Several have so far joined me and resolved to deliver a little kindness daily, weekly or as often as they can. Even if I can bring a smile to one person’s face or lend a helping hand and make a difference to one person, it will be worth it.“
Stay in touch with Giles’s progress online by liking and following Tay Valley Timebank’s Facebook page or email tayvalleytimebank@gmail to receive updates.