Your Time, Their Lifeline – Age UK Norfolk Calls for More Volunteers

Age UK Norfolk relies a lot upon its volunteers – but more are needed. Former EDP journalist David Wakefield, an Age UK Norfolk volunteer, explains why volunteering can be enjoyable and rewarding without taking up too much of your time.

Volunteers. A word that conjures up visions of that famous first world war poster of General Haig and “Your Country Needs You”. Or maybe of the loveable Lance Corporal Jones, who volunteered for anything and everything in Dad’s Army. But the truth is that a charity like Age UK Norfolk relies heavily on those unpaid members of the public who come forward to give up their time. There are so many vital roles to make it tick that the full-time and part-time staff cannot possibly plug all the holes.

So, what does it involve?

Laura Hawkie-Chapman is Age UK Norfolk’s volunteer coordinator, and she explains: “Volunteering with Age UK Norfolk is about more than giving time - it's about giving independence, joy, and connection to older people across the county.

“Many of us take simple things for granted, such as popping out to post a letter, shopping and banking online or sharing a funny story, or enjoying a walk in the fresh air. But, for some older people, these everyday moments can feel out of reach without a helping hand. That’s where Age UK Norfolk volunteers come in. Whether it’s assisting with form filling, helping someone navigate online, or simply being there to listen and laugh, volunteers bring warmth, empathy and companionship into lives that can otherwise feel isolated.

“Volunteers are trained and supported every step of the way, and roles are flexible to suit different lifestyles. Whether you have half an hour or a few hours a week, your time can make a real difference.”

I was immediately involved in newsletters and newspaper articles, working with a very friendly team. I enjoyed this for several years before moving to the information and advice section – where the public gets the answers to questions on such issues as Power of Attorney and benefits like Attendance Allowance. But Covid interrupted everything; when I returned, I took on an admin role processing voicemail requests and passing them to the appropriate sections. I’m still doing this for three hours on a Monday and love it.

You may find that your professional life has given you skills that can be put to good use. Several volunteers have worked in banking, or other financial areas, and so are in demand to check out possible benefit claimants. You have an IT background? Again, more and more older people are making use of the internet but there are often pleas for assistance in setting up equipment, passwords etc.

And, interestingly, you won’t always be dealing with people older than yourself as issues like financial hardship, and illnesses like dementia are no respectors of age. The messages I deal with are frequently from people 10 or even 15 years younger than me; but from a background where life has not treated them well. It puts everything into perspective.