We are looking for Volunteer Springboard Group Leaders (VSGL) to run small weekly social groups as part of our Big Lottery funded service, Gloucester Life Changes.

The Service supports local people aged 60+ who are coping with changes in their life, such as bereavement, being diagnosed with an illness or other things making life difficult.

However, Springboard Groups are not downbeat; they tend to be jolly, social events, where people genuinely enjoy themselves and this is largely down to the fantastic VSGLs.

Volunteers share their skills

As a VSGL you would facilitate a weekly meeting at a local venue, such as a library, where people socialise, chat with others in similar situations and pursue new or existing hobbies. You, or Group members, could share skills such as knitting IT, music – in fact, anything is encouraged.

Ten Groups already meet across the City but we need VGSLs to start more new ones.

VSGL Julie comments: “Having experienced a bereavement myself, I appreciate how social contact helped me. I love running my Group, seeing people regain their confidence and independence is a great feeling.”

The Service also provides individual support at home. A Volunteer Life Changes Visitor (VLCV), supports someone for up to 12 weeks, providing a listening ear, emotional support and encouragement to connect socially, or try a new activity.

VLCV Tom comments: “I simply provide a helping hand and, when my client is ready, they can move forward feeling stronger and more confident. I’m very well supported in my role, by Age UK Gloucestershire, who are a great charity to volunteer with.”

For more information about volunteering with us, contact Stephen Moore on 01452 422660 or visit www.ageukgloucestershire.org.uk