by Jess Horn, community development officer at South Holland District Council
Timebanking is a great way for people to help others in their community and be rewarded for it in time.
It is a simple concept that can have a lasting impact on communities and people’s lives. They are about making things happen, offering people the opportunity to make a difference through informal volunteering.
For every hour of time helping someone you receive one time credit. You can spend credits when you need help from someone else. Everyone’s time is equal, you give an hour and you get an hour back.
There are over 300 timebanks across the UK with 31,000 people involved and 3,700 organisations.
Individuals do not undertake tasks best left for professionals but can help with things like shopping, dog walking, gardening and companionship.
Everyone is valued and the more people and groups get involved the more skills and resources a community has to share – with Timebanking the possibilities are endless!
You can use your everyday skills and knowledge to help others and yourself, with everyone having an opportunity to participate and benefit.
Timebanking can make you feel healthier, happier and less isolated. It can help you feel more self-confident and, it can help you to save money.
South Holland District Council is currently working with Timebanking UK to see if there is enough interest from residents and local organisations to set up and run a timebank.
The council has organised a series of sessions for people to come along and find out more. Please come along to Crowland Parish Rooms, Hall Street, Crowland, PE6 0EW at 11am on Monday February 22 to find out more.
If you would like to get involved either as a member or part of the organising group or would like to find out more information then please contact the council’s community development team at [email protected] or call 01775 761161.
