The Retired and Senior Volunteering Programme (RSVP) in Forth Valley covers the Stirling, Falkirk and Clackmannanshire Council areas, and is delivered by a team of Volunteer Organisers and Volunteers. As a volunteer-led group running our own activities, we benefit from some organisational support from Volunteering Matters.
Over 200 volunteers are already taking part in our 5 popular RSVP Forth Valley projects –
- Volunteering in local NHS hospitals
- Volunteering in local primary schools
- Charitable knitting groups – in Alloa, and Dunblane
- Walking Group, with trained walk leaders
- Our voluntary Handyperson Service
RSVP Forth Valley aims to decrease social isolation and loneliness and improve older people’s mental health and wellbeing by engaging them in regular, ongoing volunteering activities suited to their needs and interests.
We know from our experience of delivering this programme since 2002 that older people who take part experience immense health and wellbeing benefits, as well as having the opportunity to use their life experience and skills to benefit their local community.
A major Public Health challenge in the UK is achieving healthy aging. Age UK estimate that between 6-9 million people across the UK say they feel lonely. This often begins when people lose significant relationships, or opportunities to engage in meaningful activities.
Retirement can mean a loss of routine, purpose, and a decrease in social contact. By volunteering, older people are provided with a hobby and interest which serves as a catalyst for connection with others.
Like other RSVP projects across the UK, RSVP Forth Valley relies on local fundraising activities and small grants from supermarket prize draws, or the Rotary.
