A New Year’s Resolution with a Difference – Get Volunteering

Forget the usual “Lose weight”, “Get fit”, or “Give up smoking/drinking” resolutions; this year make a New Year’s resolution with a difference, decide to “Get Volunteering”.

Volunteering is about much more than just helping people or supporting worthy causes; it’s also about doing things you enjoy, meeting different people, increasing your skills – and having fun. Research shows that if you make a resolution which has a positive effect, you’re far more likely to stick to it. Deciding to “Get Volunteering” could be the best New Year’s resolution you’ve ever made.

There are hundreds of volunteering opportunities in the Dunstable area, from occasional driver to mentor, from dog walking to administration. Whatever your passion, whatever time you have, whether you want to be inside or outside, work with lots of people or on your own, there’s bound to be something to suit you.

If you like being outside and enjoy being active, The Chilterns Gateway Visitors Centre overlooking Dunstable Downs needs volunteers to carry out practical conservation tasks. These include path and scrub clearance, litter picking, maintenance of gates, stiles and fences, etc. No prior knowledge is necessary as full training is given and all personal protective clothing is provided but volunteers do need suitable clothing and stout footwear. 

For those with an interest in or experience of disability, or experience in marketing, finance or business, the Disability Resource Centre is looking for trustees. Meetings are held every eight weeks, either afternoon or early evening, and there are opportunities to join sub-committees if volunteers wish.

The Alzheimers Society is looking for volunteers to help at its weekly drop-in sessions in Dunstable for carers of people with dementia. Volunteers offer support and give carers a much needed opportunity to get out of the house, socialise and talk about particular issues and difficulties they may be experiencing. The role involves helping with tea/coffee, providing support and a listening ear. No specific skills are necessary and all volunteers receive introductory training. 

If older people are where your heart is, Bedfordshire Advocacy Service For Older People and Age Concern are just two of the groups in the Dunstable area that would welcome your help. Both need volunteers with good listening and verbal communications skills, who are non-judgemental and can explain things clearly without using jargon or talking down to people.

By contrast, Slip End Youth Club wants a volunteer youth club assistant to get involved with its activities, doing anything from running the tuck shop or taking weekly subs, to organising occasional guest speakers to talk to the children (10 to 15 year olds).

This opportunity is ideal for those wishing to gain hands on experience relating to child development and anyone who just enjoys getting involved with youth activities.

To find out more about volunteering opportunities in and around Dunstable, contact Lucy, Rebecca or Janet at Volunteer Centre South Bedfordshire on tel. 01525 850559 for a Volunteering Directory or to arrange an informal chat.