Making Britain a great place to grow old

Making Britain a great place to grow old To make a real difference to the lives of more older people throughout the country we are transforming our services.  This transformation is at the heart of achieving our vision of making Britain a great place to grow old. 

Rather than offering a range of local services, the new way of working will start with the individual older person – understanding what their needs are and what is holding them back from being independent at home and active in their local community.

We want to make it possible for older people to carry on doing the things they enjoy - whether that's a lift to the football, organising a visit to the pub for lunch with friends.  The support people need varies at different times – after a visit in hospital it might be help with meals or collecting a prescription.  At other times it might be help walking the dog or with the garden. Above all it is a friendly local face and regular contact.

The new way of working for WRVS services will roll out across England, Scotland and Wales over the next three years.

Our first areas are ‘joined up’ already. See how WRVS Hubs are working in...

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

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WRVS services

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Find out how we can help

If you know a family member, friend
or neighbour who is lonely or
isolated, find out how
WRVS can help.

How we helpPenny - Community Gardener  Penny - Community Gardener

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for WRVS

Support our work with
older people.

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Volunteer for WRVS

We have 40,000 volunteers who help older people stay healthy, happy and
independent in
their own home.

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