A team of Barrow residents regularly and cheerfully spend their time helping other Barrow residents. Barrow upon Soar Good Neighbour Scheme links neighbours who need support with local volunteers willing to help, making everyone feel more connected as neighbours.
Volunteers can help their neighbours in a variety of ways: it could be as simple as a phone call and a chat or going out together for a short stroll (or a longer walk). They will visit people or help with transport for that trip to the doctor’s or into town. They can help with household tasks like changing a light bulb, offer some light gardening or pick up prescriptions or shopping; they’ll also offer help with the internet or with setting up a new phone or other household devices. No job is too small to help keep someone independent and living safely in their own home.
Here’s what some of Barrow residents have said about their help:
“I’ve talked to, and seen, people.”
Maureen P
“I know I can call on BGNS for most things now. Thank you for being there.”
Joyce A
“Cheering me up by their friendliness.”
Frances L
“Saved my sanity!”
Joyce K
“Gives me peace of mind that Dad is getting out.”
Rachael S
There is no huge or regular commitment needed, but if you can take on small jobs like mowing a lawn, having a chat or driving someone to an appointment please do think about ways in which you can help other people. BGNS needs volunteers like you. You can be a volunteer AND find new friends. BGNS can introduce you to someone else wanting to make a new friend, maybe just a chat on the phone every so often.
The important thing to remember about the Good Neighbour Scheme, is that you are not on your own, you are not isolated … a good neighbour is only a phone call away.
Karisa Krcmar (with information from
Barrow Good Neighbour Scheme volunteers)
To find out more about volunteering and to ask for help, call BGNS on: 07771 625 591 or email: telco4bgns@gmail.com or visit the website at: https://www.barrowuponsoar.org.uk/gns-home.html or come along to the Annual General Meeting on 27th July 7pm at the Conservative Club.