It is a fact that we, the English nation, are recognised around the world for being relatively good at giving money to charity (►►►).  But there is something else in very short supply for most of the smaller charities.

Having the finances to deliver the service that was the organisation’s original aim is very important, but having the manpower for the task needs to be given equal status.  

The government is always encouraging the unemployed to volunteer and, for young people, it is a very good way to get the experience that they cannot obtain in any other way because of the lack of real jobs available in today’s financial environment.   They can use the skills they learn to improve their experience and enhance their CVs, and that makes the time that they give worthwhile, but often that is the extent of their commitment which makes them a very short-term solution to the smaller and more local charities’ people power predicaments. 

Pensioners however, whether they have been pensioners for a while or they are newly retired are in a unique situation.  We can see all the time dedicated to helping those who have finished with the daily work routine to adjust to retirement and overcome any feelings of loneliness and depression that so often become a reality at this stage of life.   The recently retired are often trying to adjust as they are still finding out what they want to do with the rest of their lives and have an extra six to eight hours a day to fill.  

There is so much satisfaction to be found from giving help to other people, and after the initial enthusiasm that a new pensioner has for all the extra time they have, they can often get really bored.  If those who find themselves surrounded with lonely days to fill dedicate just a few hours a week to one of the many tasks; from helping to administrate for an organisation to making a few cups of tea at a day centre, the activity can be so rewarding. 

There are friends to be found and lives to learn about; often lives that put any depression the volunteer feels in to perspective.  The continued feeling of being useful is also really satisfying.

Volunteer Centre Lewisham is a really good place to start a volunteering career. They hosted their ‘Volunteering Market Place’ recently and organise other events through the year so that potential volunteers can take a look at the many opportunities available.  (►►►).  There are so many small charities who would value your help. (►►►)