Age UK Norfolk is the first port of call for many older people and their families. The charity works hard to engage with older people and respond to their needs; its support services reach out to those who need help and enable them to enjoy later life.
 
But the vital link in this chain of life is often the volunteer – people from all walks of life, and of all ages, who feel they can make a difference.
 
Volunteers are the lifeblood and backbone of Age UK Norfolk. The success and efficiency of its services are dependent upon the people who generously donate their time, experience and compassion. However, the charity is in urgent need of new volunteers to be able to continue supporting older people living in Norfolk.
 
Do you have experience of form filling and do you have a couple of hours a week free to spare? Did you know that many benefits for older people remain unclaimed each year as they are too daunted by the forms to apply? You could support an older person to complete their forms and help boost their income so they can afford the care and support they need.
 
Loneliness can have a devastating impact on the lives of older people and it is on the rise – which is why Age UK Norfolk is urging new volunteers to commit to just one call a week, a call that can make all the difference to a lonely older person.
 
Age UK Norfolk’s Telephone Befriending volunteers love nothing more than brightening someone’s day, whether by having a friendly chat, completing a fun quiz or simply laughing together about something funny that has happened during the week. Enjoying a regular call and chat on the telephone helps to break the feeling of loneliness and brightens the week.
 
The charity also has opportunities helping older people keep up with their paperwork from banks, building societies, landlords, etc., which can become too much to cope with.
 
At any one time, Age UK Norfolk is providing ongoing support to more than 250 older people with the help of their volunteers. It is looking for people with a basic experience of handling household finances who could spare time to help older people to stay independent.
 
These are examples of just a few of the roles available. The charity has a wide range of roles in established services, and depending on your talents and interests, there is bound to be an opportunity where you can share your knowledge, learn new skills, make new friends and have fun. No experience is necessary and full training will be provided.
 
There are no barriers to becoming a volunteer and volunteering for Age UK Norfolk is a great way to make a real difference to the lives of older people across Norfolk.
 

• To learn more call 01603 785241, email recruitment@ageuknorfolk.org.uk or visit www.ageuknorfolk.org.uk