Gill, Later Life Planning Volunteer
Gill has been volunteering for the Later Life Planning Service since 2015
What is your role and what does it involve?
I assist Age UK Barnet with their “Later Life Planning” service. I work one or sometimes two mornings a week. It’s office-based – I don’t go to see clients - but I really, really like it. I help the others in the team and moreover I make a difference.
Most importantly I help with the completion of forms. I say that as the forms may be on paper, but are increasingly online. Even for me they can be confusing, but for some of our clients it’s just too much. They can have great difficulties with the confusing terminology, let alone the technology. I feel very sorry for them.
Without me, I know that some of my clients would give up. That would be terrible. Many of the forms are really important - getting a Blue Badge or benefits. These can be life-savers.
What made you want to start volunteering?
There are two main reasons. First of all, my background is office work. In fact, ten years ago I was a full-time secretary. Secondly, I have experience looking after the elderly. I know how hard it can be. I looked after my elderly mother. In short I wanted to ‘give back’ and I knew that by doing office work, I could.
Are there any challenges in your volunteering role?
Sometimes making applications can be time-consuming. You can be passed from pillar to post in your enquiries. But that just shows how hard it can be for some of our clients.
All clients are different and not every client is easy. You need to be patient. Sometimes the problem comes from not understanding what the client needs.
What is your favourite thing about volunteering?
I am interested in helping people. That’s my purpose in coming to Age UK Barnet. I also like to keep busy and this job does generally keep me very busy! Recently a client received the attendance allowance that I had helped him apply for. He sent me a thank you card. That made my day!
How have you used the skills you have learned?
I think this role has maintained my awareness of the issues that many people grapple with. It is all too easy to forget how difficult things can be for some people.
What other benefits are there?
I think I feel valued in this role – they recently sent me on a course for universal credit - and I enjoy working in my team. The role has also made me feel more empathetic. I think it has also encouraged me to value my own health and to appreciate doing something useful whilst one still can.