A volunteer's view

We hear from one our many amazing volunteers, to find out more about their experience while volunteering with us.

How did you get involved with volunteering at Age UK Bradford District?

When I finished full-time work I wanted to keep busy and be more involved in my local community.  I have always enjoyed spending time with older people, and there was a big gap in my life after both my mum and my auntie died in the same month. So Age UK seemed like a good place to be.

What role have you had and what does it involve doing?

I support two ladies; they both live on their own and don't get out much so they appreciate company and someone to talk to.  When possible I take one of them out in the car for a drive, and sometimes a walk in the park.  I have helped one lady with practical things about the house, and I do some shopping for her.  I have also helped her to find a hairdresser, manicurist, electrician and gas engineer over the past year, and helped her to get used to carers visiting morning and night. Both ladies have become good friends.

What is the best thing about volunteering?

It's lovely to feel that I am making a difference to someone; being useful on a practical level as well as offering friendship and company.  And I have made new friends which is good for my own wellbeing too.

What have you learnt while volunteering with us?

I have learned more about what Age UK Bradford District does as an organisation and the range of activities it covers.  And particularly in recent times how much difference it makes to people to have contact with others and not feel isolated.

What has been the highlight while volunteering?

One of the friends I visit has been knitting little hats for the Big Knit project, and she was featured in the Telegraph and Argus last year with a lovely photo.  I helped her to write the story that went with the photo.

What would you say to someone who is considering volunteering?

Try it! Age UK Bradford District is a lovely organisation to volunteer with and they really look after their volunteers.

We are looking for new volunteers to help in our work with older people in the area. 

We have a range of volunteering opportunities, so if you have skills to share and time to spare, please get in touch! 

Call us on 01274 391 190 or email at info@ageukbd.org.uk

More information on volunteering at Age UK Bradford District can be found here.