About us

laughing man

We believe in making Britain a great place to grow old. Everyday WRVS helps thousands of older people to live the way they want. We provide personal and practical support so older people can stay independent at home and active in their local community.

Making Britain a great place to grow old

Making Britain a great place to grow old

By 2030 there will be more than 3 million people over 85, up eight-fold since 1981. The practical work we do transforms the lives of the people we help each month but to meet the growing demand we are evolving and expanding our services.

Who we are

Who we are

We believe that every older person should have the opportunity and choice to get more out of life. At a local community level we deliver personal and practical support through the power of local volunteers to support older people.

Our history

Our history

Originally known as the Women’s Voluntary Services for Air Raid Precautions, WRVS was founded over 70 years ago to support local communities in times of need.

Our people

Our people

WRVS is managed be an executive team, headed by our Chief Executive. It is governed by our Board of Trustees, headed by our Chairman. Overall we have nearly 2,500 staff and about 40,000 local volunteers.

Working for us

Working for us

Make a significant difference to lives of older people in this country by working for us. We are always looking for talented and passionate people. Find out about our latest vacancies.

Suppliers

Suppliers

WRVS is committed to responsible sourcing and developing a robust and sustainable supply chain. Find out about our latest tender opportunities.

Governance

WRVS is a registered charity in accordance with the Charities Act 1993. Our registered charity number in England and Wales is 1015988 and in Scotland is SC038924.

Our registered office is:
WRVS Cardiff Gate
Beck Court
Cardiff Gate Business Park
CARDIFF

CF23 8RP

WRVS is also constituted as a company limited by guarantee and is registered under the Companies Act 1985. Our limited company number is registered in England and Wales, number 2520413.


Our real life stories

WRVS touches the lives of older people all across Britain

  • Leyla's story

    Leyla's story

    “I’m doing the Duke of Edinburgh Award and wanted to gain some experience in the area that I want to work.”

    Watch Leyla's story

  • Robert Compton

    Phyllis, Pod and Carole’s stories

    Phyllis is normally looked after by Pod, and when he had a stay in hospital she knew they would need help – Volunteer Carole was able to offer them practical help at home.

      Read Phyllis, Pod and Carole’s stories

More real life stories

Find your local
WRVS services

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Help make Britain a
great place to grow old

We are a charity on
a mission.

Find out about us Penny - Community Gardener

Help raise funds
for WRVS

Support our work with
older people.

Become a fundraiser Noreen and Vera dancing

Volunteer for WRVS

Spare some time to
make a difference.

Join us Volunteer with eldery gentleman

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Staying connected

Does technology play a part in keeping older people younger and part of their community?