Time to spare? Spread a little kindness this new year in Midlothian
After an incredible effort to pull together at the beginning of the pandemic, residents are once again being asked to consider how they might spread a little kindness in 2022.
Could you spare a few hours?
Midlothian Council and Midlothian Health and Social Care Partnership are joining forces with voluntary organisations to encourage local people to give a few hours of their time for the benefit of our community.
Paid and volunteer roles
A number of voluntary and paid roles are available across Midlothian, many of which require a time commitment of just a couple of hours a week.
Helping someone at home
Paid roles are available for locum Care Support Workers, to provide personal care and support to frail, disabled and older people in their own homes to maximise independence for a long as possible.
Something for everyone
Voluntary roles currently open include passenger assistants for transport to and from Broomhill day centre; hospital ward helpers; Ageing Well walk or activity leaders; fancy a blether? Befrienders and many more.
Kate's a ward helper
Kate Keir, who has volunteered as a ward helper at Midlothian Community Hospital for the past two years, said: “I volunteer because as well as helping out at the hospital, it also gets me out the house so it’s a win-win situation. The best thing about volunteering is the feeling I get knowing I have helped in some small way.
“I would encourage others to volunteer because it makes you feel good knowing you have given something back.”
Think of others
Council Leader Councillor Derek Milligan said: “It’s been a really difficult time for everyone, but particularly our older and more vulnerable residents and there’s still a big need for us all to be thinking of each other.
Find something to suit you
“If you can spare an hour or two a week, there are lots of opportunities across Midlothian to volunteer your time and give back to the community. I’d encourage everyone to take a look at www.midlothian.gov.uk/kindness-midlothian to see if any of the roles appeal. Our teams would love to have you on board.”
Pop round to see a neighbour
Lesley Kelly, Chief Officer, Volunteer Midlothian added: “You might decide you can only commit to something informally - popping around to check on an elderly neighbour, or fetching some shopping – and that’s great, even small acts of kindness can make a big impact on someone’s life.
If you can spare more time
“But perhaps you have some spare time and can make a longer term commitment. Whether that’s volunteering on a ward at the local hospital for a couple of hours a week, or having a weekly blether on the phone with someone who could use a friend – there are lots of ways to make a difference.”
Find out more
Kate Keir is pictured on the right with Liz Ogilvie. Both women volunteer as ward helpers at Midlothian Community Hospital.