Volunteer with us.
A few hours a week could mean everything to someone in our community.
Why volunteer with us
For a lot of older people in Aylsham, our volunteers are the friendliest face they see all week. A hot meal served with a chat, a phone call that breaks up a quiet afternoon, a lift to the doctor: small things, given regularly, that change the shape of someone's week.
Our volunteers tell us they get just as much back. New friendships, a sense of purpose, somewhere to be on a Tuesday morning, and a reference that opens doors if they're heading back into work or study. You don't need to bring anything but a bit of warmth and a couple of hours a week.
How it works
A simple, low-pressure path from interested to involved.
Get in touch
Fill in the form below or give us a call. A short note is all we need to start.
Friendly chat
An informal meeting with our coordinator. No interview, no pressure.
Induction
Quick training on what you'll be doing and who you'll be working with.
Get started
Matched with a role and supported by your team from day one.
Free DBS check provided where needed. We cover reasonable expenses.
“I started as a driver two days a week after I retired. Three years later I'm still here. I've made more friends through this than I did in 30 years at work.”
Brian
Volunteer driver since 2022
Register your interest
Tell us a bit about yourself. We'll be in touch within a few days.
Template preview
Example content for template review. Replaced at deployment by the client’s GHL volunteer registration form.
No commitment: we'll just have a chat.
Volunteer FAQs
Do I need experience?
Not at all. We provide full training and pair every new volunteer with someone experienced for their first few sessions. The only role with prior requirements is Trustee, where governance or professional experience is helpful.
How much time do I need to give?
It depends entirely on the role. Befriending callers commit around 20 minutes a week, day centre helpers do 2 to 4 hours, and drivers fit it around their own diary. We'll find something that works for your life, not the other way around.
What support will I get?
Every volunteer has a named contact at AOPA who checks in regularly. You'll have a full induction, ongoing training, and a clear handover for whoever you're supporting. We also run a small social for volunteers twice a year.
What if I can't commit long-term?
That's fine. Event volunteers help out for a single afternoon, and short-term helpers are always welcome around our busiest periods (Christmas, summer holidays). We'd rather have you for a few months than not at all.
Is there a minimum age?
Volunteers need to be 18 or over for most roles. We do welcome under-18s for some event volunteering with a parent or guardian, and we're happy to support Duke of Edinburgh placements where the role fits.
Are expenses covered?
Yes. We reimburse reasonable travel costs (mileage for drivers, bus or train fares for others) and provide a free DBS check for any role that requires one. Volunteering should never leave you out of pocket.
Still have a question? Get in touch.
Keep in touch
Stories from the community, once a month. No spam.
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Example content for template review. Replaced at deployment by the client’s GHL newsletter signup form.