In a bid to foster stronger community ties and support those in need, Volunteering Matters has partnered with Newcastle City Council to launch “Good Neighbours Newcastle”. This community led project will recruit, train, and support volunteers who offer “a little bit of help” to individuals facing social isolation, or those who lack a support network.
The Good Neighbours Newcastle initiative enables volunteers to dedicate a little time, providing social, emotional, or practical assistance to people in their communities. Tasks range from assistance with grocery shopping, collecting prescriptions, accompanying people to social activities, light gardening or simply sharing a cup of tea and a conversation. With a flexible structure, volunteers can select volunteering acts of kindness that fit their own schedules using an innovative app – Volunteero.
By engaging in the programme, volunteers often experience a boost in their own wellbeing and gain valuable skills, while those receiving support feel safer, more connected, and empowered to live independently. and attending social activities.
Laura Bennett, Engagement Manager for Good Neighbours Newcastle, said:
“Place-based change starts with people who care about their communities. Across Newcastle, we see a growing desire for volunteers to shape their local neighbourhoods for the better. Good Neighbours Newcastle is about harnessing that goodwill and ensuring everyone has the opportunity to give back and feel connected. When civil society is strong, communities flourish.”
Councillor Adam Walker, Cabinet Member for Adult Social Care, Health and Prevention at Newcastle City Council said:
“In an increasingly busy world, there are sometimes reasons why we can’t always get out an about and do all the things we would like to. This can have a detrimental impact on both physical and mental health and can lead to feelings of isolation. Having someone pop round for a coffee and chat or to help with the shopping or gardening can make a huge difference, but not everyone has family or friends who can do this.
“By harnessing the friendliness and community spirit our city is known for, Good Neighbours Newcastle will help tackle exclusion by matching volunteers with people who need a bit of help and support. I am delighted that the council is working with Volunteering Matters to deliver a project that will make a real difference to people’s lives.”
The Good Neighbours Newcastle project is funded by Newcastle City Council and is delivered by Volunteering Matters. This initiative builds on Volunteering Matters’ longstanding presence in Newcastle and continues our strong, positive partnership with Newcastle City Council. Together, we have worked tirelessly to support local communities, fostering meaningful connections and impactful change throughout the city, and encourage people to take part in volunteering.
To find out more or to sign up as a volunteer, search online for Good Neighbours Newcastle or visit https://volunteeringmatters.org.uk/good-neighbours-newcastle/.
If you know someone who could benefit from the support of a Good Neighbour, search online for Good Neighbours Newcastle or telephone 07534 576 137
Notes for editor
Volunteering Matters bring people together to overcome adversity, tackle isolation, improve physical and mental health, develop skills and ensure young people can lead change. What makes us unique is our approach to developing programmes in local areas. Our volunteering programmes are designed by communities, for communities, as they have the power, local knowledge and energy to improve themselves from within. At Volunteering Matters, we believe that stronger communities mean that everyone has the opportunity to thrive.
ENDS
For media inquiries, please contact:
Andrew Henry
0793 9838 666
communications@volunteeringmatters.org.uk
Volunteering Matters
