Volunteers sought to help elderly in Littlehampton

Former minister for disabled people, Maria Miller, alongside Worthing West MP Sir Peter Bottomley during a visit to St Bridget's

The Royal Voluntary Service’s Good Neighbours and Community Meals schemes in Littlehampton needs volunteers to support the delivery of meals to the growing number of elderly people in the community who wish to maintain their independence by living in their own homes, but who may struggle to shop or cook for themselves.

Volunteers simply heat up a chilled, pre-delivered meal for the service-user and enhance their mealtime experience by offering company and friendship while they eat their food.

The visitor also carries out a quick ‘warm and well’ check by helping to document the safety and well-being of the elderly people.

Volunteers giving just a couple of hours of their time every week can mean so much to elderly residents who find it difficult to get out.

Volunteers will need a friendly personality, an understanding of the needs of older people with the ability to observe and identify areas of concern.

They will have good communication and listening skills with a non-judgemental attitude towards individual circumstances and a respect for discrete confidentiality.

A car is particularly useful although several volunteers walk or use public transport, and it is a task that can be done individually or as a couple.

Relevant training is provided by the Royal Voluntary Service and expenses will be reimbursed.

To volunteer for the Royal Voluntary Service call 0845 600 5885 (quote West Sussex) or visit www.royalvoluntaryservice.org.uk/westsussex

St Bridget’s in Rustington is a residential home for adults with a physical disability.

An important part of its service is having volunteers assisting disabled people in their everyday life, join in activities and to go out to shops among other things.

St Bridget’s is looking for people with the skills and interests to bring to the activity sessions.

This includes people who could lead an activity session for a small group of residents, which could include news reviews, board games or music etc.

The residents like to go out to the shops, the seaside and social events, but they need some help.

This could include assistance to cross roads or help to control or push a wheelchair.

Training is offered.

To find out more, contact Carolyn Richards, volunteer co-ordinator at [email protected] or phone 01903 777806.