July 2016 Lucy, who volunteers in an Oxfam shop, says: “There are three ways to keep happy. Take exercise, count your blessings and do something for somebody else. This is my bit of doing something for somebody else. I love it too!” Let us help you keep happy through volunteering – you can certainly help someone else and you might even get some exercise. We’ll leave counting your blessings to you! If you are interested in finding out more about the volunteering opportunities in this newsletter – or the hundreds more we have to offer – please contact Volunteer Centre One Community on 023 8090 2458 or volunteer@1community.org.uk.
Volunteer Centre Out and About Come and talk to Volunteer Centre staff on the One Community stand at the following events this month: Eastleigh Football Club Fun Day, Saturday 9 July from 12pm at Eastleigh Football Club, The Silverlake Stadium, Stoneham Lane, Eastleigh SO50 9HT Eastleigh Mela, Sunday 24 July, 11am-6pm at Leigh Road Recreation Ground, Eastleigh SO50 9DE
Hedge End Good Neighbours Could you spare a few hours on an occasional basis to drive older and disabled people in Hedge End to medical appointments? Hedge End Good Neighbours has recently been set up and is gaining popularity amongst local residents. The group is looking to recruit drivers who could take clients to hospital, doctor, dentist, or similar medical appointments. This service requires a group of volunteers who can assist the group on days or times to suit themselves.
Drivers will not be out of pocket as expenses will be paid. Clients will be asked to pay a suggested donation. The group coordinator will contact drivers to see if they can fulfil a specific request that has been received. Drivers can then decide whether they are able to assist. Drivers will be required to have a DBS check which will be paid for by the group. If you are 75 or older we will pay for you to take the driver skills assessment run by Hampshire County Council. The group is part of the Hampshire Good Neighbours Network.
Visiting Scheme A million older people in the UK haven’t spoken to anyone for a month, according to Age UK. The One Community Visiting Scheme, which operates across the boroughs of Eastleigh and Fareham, aims to address the issue of loneliness and social isolation among older people and those who find it difficult to get out and about. Volunteers are recruited to visit a client for one or two hours a week – but only need to commit to eight visits at a time. Mileage and phone expenses are refunded and full training and support are provided. We have clients in the Eastleigh area on the waiting list for a visitor. Could you spare an hour or two a week?
Produced by Volunteer Centre One Community, 16 Romsey Road, Eastleigh SO50 9AL Tel 023 8090 2458