Salford Time Bank is on the lookout for new people who are ready to swap skills to make the community a better place.
Newground Together (part of the Together Housing Group) and Salford Clinical Commissioning Group (CCG) jointly awarded local social enterprise Unlimited Potential over £62,000 to fund the Time Banking pilot project over the last 12 months.
Time banking is simple. You give someone the benefit of your skills, anything from shopping or dog walking to gardening or sewing.
For every hour you spend helping someone, you get a time credit. For every hour you get help, you spend a time credit. There is no money involved.
It’s a perfect opportunity to help someone in your local neighbourhood, make new friends, and get help with the things in your life.
And it’s important to note – time banking is different to volunteering and taking part will not affect any benefits you receive.
Peter Jordan, Newground Together’s Executive Director, said: “Time Banking is a unique way of bringing people together and helping them to think about what they can do to help their local community.
“Every person has a skill; they might be good at decorating or expert with a computer but even if it’s just reading someone a letter or chatting to someone who is not very mobile that’s equally valued by the recipient.
“We were delighted to be able to support the development of this scheme and we hope it continues to go from strength to strength.”
One such member is George Dawes, who found out about the scheme and helps people trace their family history.
He said: “I heard about the Time Bank and was instantly intrigued so I found out more about it and it’s been a very good experience.
“I enjoy genealogy so I’ve been able to plot family trees for people, and it’s been very revealing in some cases!
“I’ve met a lot of good people and I’d encourage anyone to get involved.”
Scott Hardman, Time Broker, said: “Everyone needs a little help from time to time, it might be just a lift, help reading a letter or something more physical. Everyone has a skill that they can provide and everyone is welcome to join.
“It helps reduce isolation and can have a very positive impact on a person’s wellbeing and health.
“We’ve seen friendships blossom and transform lives as a result of time banking, and we know it’s a great movement to be involved in.”
Kirstine Farrer, Head of Innovation and Research at Salford CCG, said: “Social isolation is a major issue in society today and the Time Bank pilot enables Salford residents the opportunity to build their confidence and socialise, whilst offering to share their skills which will benefit others.”
So if you want to get involved give them a call on 0161 743 4502 / 07419 374182 or visit Salford Time Banking on Facebook.
Photo: Time Broker Scott Hardman explains about the scheme
