Volunteering Opportunities
Volunteers are vital to our work - we couldn't run our services for older people without their help and kindness.
At Age UK Maidstone, Sevenoaks and Tonbridge we take pride in delivering this invaluable volunteering service to the older residents in the Maidstone, Sevenoaks and Tonbridge areas. Simple things like offering companionship and a listening ear makes a huge difference to a person’s quality of life.
Why should I volunteer?
People volunteer for various reasons but most do so because it gives them a great sense of achievement – that they have brightened up someone else’s day! Some volunteer because they have retired and wish to utilise their spare time. Others, like students, volunteer to gain hands-on experience and to learn about different types of disabilities, such Dementia, Alzheimer's, Parkinsons and various other forms of mental health issues.
However, volunteering is not restricted to any profession, everyone is welcome to apply and there is no need for any experience. We provide assistance and continuous support to all our volunteers, including various training which may further their careers.
The older population of Maidstone, Sevenoaks and Tonbridge continues to increase in numbers whilst their relatives, younger generation and friends move out to pastures new. During these times of stress and loneliness, a great void is left by absent relatives and friends who would otherwise be there to tend to the small needs of these older people. Loneliness, itself, is degenerative – it gives rise to other ailments, such as depression. For the majority of people their essential medical needs are met by professional medical staff, but who should tend to their emotional needs?
What you will I get out of it?
- It's a great way to make a real difference to someone's life
- You'll be giving something to your community
- You get to be part of Age UK Maidstone, Sevenoaks and Tonbridge's volunteer team
- Our volunteers can tell you themselves how rewarding it really is
- Experience a real sense of achievement
What is expected of me?
Whether it may be an hour a fortnight or a few hours a week, the choice is yours. There is no 100% commitment policy we expect from you, don't forget this is your time and you are in control of it.
Not sure what would suit you best?
You may well be pleasently surprised to enjoy something most that is completely out of your comfort zone...
Please Note
Please note that our services only cover the Maidstone, Sevenoaks and Tonbridge Areas. If you are local to Medway, Malling, Larkfield, Aylesford, etc. you will need to contact your local Age UK. Search by postcode.
So what opportunities can I try?
Notice for volunteers
We have many volunteering roles available please do get in touch. We are actively recruiting for our Befriending and Meals on Wheels delivery drivers. Please fill in the form at the bottom of the page to indicate which of these roles you are interested in. Thank you!
Mini Bus Driver
The provision of transport to Age UK Maidstone, Sevenoaks and Tonbridge clients to and from the Day care facilities. To drive any Age UK Maidstone, Sevenoaks and Tonbridge minibus in a safe and
responsible manner. To provide a high standard of customer care to all clients and act in a responsible and courteous manner at all times when undertaking all duties.
Mini Bus Escort
To support clients to and from Age UK Maidstone, Sevenoaks and Tonbridge mini-buses in a safe and responsible manner. To provide a high standard of customer care to all clients and act in a responsible and courteous manner at all times when undertaking all duties.
Office Support
To support the work of our administrative team by assisting the in maintaining our files, monitoring our Information and Advice leaflets, opening the post if required, answering the telephone, dealing with visitors and enquiries from the public.
Great for school leavers or people wanting to gain experience in administration.
Dementia Day Care Assistant
To provide support and assistance to our staff in the day centres in delivering our service to the clients. To support the staff in the delivery of person centred care for the benefit of our clients..
Befriender
Volunteer Befrienders will be trained and supported to visit people in their own homes on a regular basis, offering companionship and support, in turn helping to raise self esteem and build confidence for people who might otherwise spend days without seeing or speaking to anyone.
Exercise and Socialise Class Leader
To co-ordinate and run our exercise project to enable the over 50 population in Maidstone, Sevenoaks and Tonbridge to engage in gentle and light exercise to help keep them fit and active.
Exercise and Socialise Class Helper
To support the co-ordinate and run our exercise project to enable the over 50 population in Maidstone, Sevenaoks and Tonbridge to engage in gentle and light exercise to help keep them fit and active.