There are lots of ways to support older people and vulnerable adults in Surrey; from helping them to stay independent to ensuring they can live and age well. Here are some ways you can make a difference.
Make daily life easier
Drive into Action volunteers help elderly or vulnerable people across Surrey access hospital appointments, collect prescriptions and enjoy social events. All you need is a car and a valid driving license.
Royal Voluntary Service volunteers help older people have independent and fulfilling lives. Simple things like taking an older person to the shops, walking their dog or deliver a healthy cooked meal, can make all the difference.
Sight for Surrey provide sensory services for people who are visually or hearing impaired and those who have combined hearing and sight loss. Volunteers provide a range of support from events and fundraising to being a virtual befriender.
Surrey Remap are a local group of skilled volunteers helping disabled people achieve independence and a better quality of life by designing and tailor making equipment for their individual needs.
Dementia Friends Champions are trained volunteers who encourage others to learn a little bit about dementia. Champions run Information Sessions in their community and inspire others to help those living with dementia to live well.
Be a much-needed friend
Friends of the Elderly befriending service volunteers provide much-needed friendship and support by calling or visiting those who live alone or who have little contact with friends or family.
Digital Buddies assist those using computers/laptops independently in the library for the first time – all you need is confidence in basic IT skills.
Library Direct Home Service volunteers visit people who are no longer able to visit the library themselves.
Offer support in tough times
Surrey Appropriate Adult volunteers support young people under the age of 18 and mentally vulnerable adults when they are in police custody. Their role is not to provide legal advice, but to offer impartial support and be a friendly face in the absence of a family member or carer.
Samaritans help people across Surrey find their way through whatever is troubling them. Volunteers can help people explore their options, understand their problems better, or just be there to listen.
Help out your health services
NHS volunteers are invaluable to their local hospitals. Their role is to help make a patient's stay more pleasant, allowing professional staff to remain fully focused on patient care.
