Through more than 40,000 volunteers WRVS helps older people all over the country to stay independent at home and active in their community. It is that practical little bit of help that makes all the difference – whether at home, getting them to where they want to go, bringing people together through social activities or supporting them in hospital or in an emergency.
Our volunteers have been checked by the Criminal Records Bureau and all carry identification so you can sure they're genuine.
WRVS volunteers support thousands of older people every day to stay independent in their own homes. We offer practical help that can make all the difference – whether it’s collecting shopping or providing friendly company to break up the day.
WRVS centres and clubs give older people opportunities to meet up with old friends and make new ones. They offer a range of activities and events that bring people together in varied and active ways.
One in three older people find it difficult to get where they want to go, particularly if they are without a car or find the bus difficult. WRVS helps around 7,000 people a year to get to the shops or visit friends and family.
Our new health strategy places our 450 hospital shops and cafés at the centre of WRVS volunteer based health services. As well as trolleys and welcome desks, we're training our volunteers to offer befriending to older people on the ward.
Our trained teams of volunteers are on call 24 hours a day, 365 days a year to respond to emergencies. When an incident happens, WRVS is there to support that local community through the challenges and help them recover.