The majority (59%) of people approaching the end of their working lives in the North East say they are worried about retirement. In new research, commissioned by literacy charity Beanstalk, one in five (20%) nearing retirement in the North East said they are worried about becoming lonely or isolated, while the same number (20%) said they worry about becoming mentally inactive. Worries about losing motivation were highlighted by 16%, while 18% say they’ll miss camaraderie among colleagues and worry about not having opportunities to interact with other people and other ages (23%). Janet Skeen, North East Area Manager for Beanstalk, the charity providing volunteer reading helpers in primary schools, says:  “Retirement, though daunting for many, can offer great new opportunities and can represent a new chapter in people’s lives. Many of our reading helpers in the North East join us after retiring and the time they spend helping children learn to read is a perfect antidote to loneliness or isolation.

It makes them feel valued, introduces them to new people and new challenges, and is a fantastic way to use the skills they’ve developed in their careers. Their contribution is vital – without them, these children would still be struggling to read, and facing all the problems associated with low literacy levels – but it’s always worth recognising what the volunteers get out of it themselves, too.” Over a third (34%) of those who took part in the research said they wanted to ‘do something meaningful’ in their retirement and 12% said they planned to help the next generation. That’s just what Jim Jelly from Ferryhill, County Durham did. When he finished full time work as a journalist, 65 year-old Jim knew he wanted to volunteer as a way to give something back. “I was made redundant and when it became obvious I probably wouldn’t work again, I started to look for voluntary work. I wanted to do something that would continue to engage my brain and to give something back.

I liked the sound of Beanstalk’s work and applied straight away, and I’ve found a great little community at the school where I volunteer. Besides the excellent relationship I’ve built with everyone, it’s the kids that make it so worthwhile – they always seem delighted to come and read with me. I’m really impressed by their attitude; despite the social problems many of the children face, their hard work and enthusiasm really shines through.” For more information on Beanstalk and becoming a reading helper visit www.beanstalkcharity.org.uk or call 020 7729 4087.