Don Warrington volunteers for us

We were delighted that actor Don Warrington MBE dropped in on our day club to help out with activities and speak to our volunteers as part of the Big Help Out. 

Don, 71, known to television viewers from his appearances in Rising Damp and Death in Paradise, had a wonderful time with our members, chatting, playing word games and puzzles as well as making samosas. “I helped make six or seven samosas,' reveals Don with pride. “I didn’t know how to do them before, but I know how to make them now. That’s something to achieve in a day!”

Having witnessed first-hand the contributions they make, Don was full of admiration for Age UK Barnet’s volunteers. 'Speaking to them, it’s clear how much satisfaction they get from it,' he explains. 'Volunteering is thinking about other people and is an absolutely vital activity. It’s a two-way street: you give up your time and efforts for other people, and you get so much back from, so everybody involved benefits. You have to make a decision to get involved and the rewards are immense.'

And Don has some words of encouragement for anyone thinking of getting involved. 'You can’t imagine what those rewards are until you participate, because you’re learning all the time and consequently, you’re learning about yourself,' he explains. 'If you’re thinking about it, do it. Stop thinking; action!'

Don helped out in our Day Clubs for people living with mild to moderate dementia. We have plenty of other opportunities for volunteers - from helping out in our activities to befriending or shopping for someone who cannot get out. Check out our volunteering roles on our website here