A SELFLESS volunteer who dedicates her time to helping older people across Solihull is calling on others to join up.
As part of Volunteers Week 2024 Age UK Solihull volunteer Rosie has spoken about why she got involved and what keeps her going.
Rosie said she decided to volunteer for Age UK Solihull after seeing an item on the news about loneliness in older people.
With many roles to choose from including befrienders, who provide companionship to lonely and isolated older residents, to digital champions, who help residents boost their technology skills, and all those involved in running the activities from drivers to helpers, even to shop volunteers and the Board of Trustees – there’s plenty of Silhillians lending a hand, there was plenty of places where she could lend a hand.
She initially joined as a telephone befriender, and has also helped in other roles including digital champion, club helper and volunteer driver.
Rosie said: “I get a real sense of reward and satisfaction from being a volunteer with Age UK Solihull.
“I really feel that I’m making a difference to local people in my community.
“I feel really valued and supported as a member of the team and it truly is a team effort all round.
“I would recommend becoming a volunteer to anyone who is thinking about it; it is the best thing I have ever done.
“You really feel part of a family and the knowledge that you are really helping local people makes it such a rewarding pastime.”
To mark Volunteer Week 2024 Age UK Solihull has thanked and praised its 350 volunteers who take on a wide range of roles to help older people in the borough.
Age UK Solihull’s volunteer manager, Ashlee Young, said: “Our volunteers are the heart of our charity.
“Their dedication, compassion, and hard work enable us to provide essential services to the older residents of Solihull.
“We simply could not do it without them.
“Last year, around £176,000 value was added with our volunteer support.
“Volunteers Week is a wonderful opportunity to celebrate and thank them for their invaluable contributions.”
For more information about volunteering opportunities with Age UK Solihull, visit here or contact Ashlee on 0121 704 7843 or [email protected]
