Celebrating our volunteers

We could not reach the many thousands of older people across our ‘patch’ (all 2,615km² of it!) without our dedicated team of volunteers who tirelessly support the delivery of much-needed services to those most in need.

Their local knowledge is invaluable, their connection to the communities they work in is essential when we plan and deliver our services and they care about the people they support. They know stuff.

Our retail volunteers are creative, resourceful and adept at dealing with customers, bags full of donations and the mountains of gift aid forms.

They are very much part of the community, often the first point of contact for older people who may be looking to access our services.

Angela Turner, one of our footcare volunteers, has been with us for 20 years and present at over 14,500 appointments, enabling older people to maintain their independence and mobility. That’s over 145,000 toenails trimmed, falls prevented and, on many occasions, referrals to other support where needed.

Angela said: “I volunteer because it makes me feel like I’ve made a difference and I know that they feel better after their appointment.”

Wendy Thorpe, our all-rounder volunteer, came by this week to pick up some event posters to distribute. She is the finder and collector of donations for the retail team, telephone befriender, leaflet dropper, the best maker of coffee and buyer of milk when we run out.

Her local knowledge is incredible and her compassion for those who are struggling to cope with the challenges of ageing is humbling.

Her 85-year-old mum knits wonderful things for us, including the tiny hats for the yearly Innocent Smoothies Big Knit fundraiser.

Squirrelling away at their computers, Emma Phillips and Steve Taylor work hard juggling with spreadsheets, lightbulbs and warm home packs, with such skill and attention to detail, patiently answering questions from those of us less skilled in the art of Excel!

I could write a book on the incredible and varied contribution each volunteer makes to the charity but I’m on a word limit so you’ll have to take my word for it.

As you can see, our volunteer roles are varied, we can find something to suit everyone and would love to hear from you if you’d like to join us.

Whether you can give an hour or 10 (or more!), all time given will make a difference. Full training and support will be offered.

If you are interested in volunteering, please contact juliette@ageukwmh.org.