A charity that provides a fortnightly door-to-door social shopping club in Newton Aycliffe is appealing for a volunteer to help older people get on and off the bus.
Age UK County Durham’s ‘Aycliffe Shoppers’ fortnightly shopping club every other Friday morning is so important to the older people who use it to go shopping and to socialise.
The service uses Shildon Community Bus and a volunteer driver and helper ensure older people who live alone or would struggle to carry heavy shopping from the bus stop can enjoy shopping with good company.
Andrea Goldie, Development Worker for Age UK County Durham said:
“For many older people poor mobility and a lack of transport means getting to the shops can be problematic. In addition, when you live alone, it can be a lonely activity. We really need a new friendly volunteer to provide support one morning a fortnight. Full support will be provided.”
“The trips aren’t just a ride to the shops. These regular trips to supermarkets are making a huge difference to older people who have difficulty shopping for food. Members get the added bonus of a door-to-door service, a wider variety of shops and supermarkets, time to chat, enjoy something to eat or drink, and help getting shopping on and off the bus.
Here’s what some members have to say:
“We enjoy the trips and appreciated the help from the volunteer helper and the driver. I would have struggled to get my shopping otherwise”.
“I enjoy the trips. I had not been able to get to the supermarket in six weeks. I also enjoyed the company whilst in the store, which was much appreciated”.
If you think you can help please contact Andrea on 0191 374 6577 or e-mail: cet@ageukcountydurham.org.uk.