A CHARITY is asking people to give their time as a gift to vulnerable older people and carers this Christmas.

Ryedale Carers Support has launched an appeal for new volunteers to help them combat loneliness and isolation.

The charity's community development worker Sarah Lally-Marley said: "The shorter days and colder weather can make it harder to get out and about and many will feel increasingly lonely and isolated, particularly those living in rural areas with little or no access to public transport.

"Ryedale Carers Support works hard to tackle this problem in Ryedale by providing a free volunteer sitting service for carers and a volunteer visiting service for older people living on their own who would benefit from some regular company and a friendly face visiting them on a regular basis."

Both services rely on a team of dedicated volunteers and Sarah said she was keen to encourage people to consider using a small amount of their spare time to make a big difference to the lives of those at risk of loneliness and isolation.

“We have a wonderful team of volunteers, of all ages, experiences and backgrounds and many of them have been volunteering with us for a number of years,” she said.

“As the demand for our services increases, we are in desperate need of more volunteers who can spare a couple of hours a week or fortnight to enable us to ensure we can help everyone who approaches us for support.

"While everyone is busy compiling Christmas lists, we are asking people to consider giving a gift of time this winter – Just a small amount of your time can provide a lifeline for the people we support."

Joan, who is 84, lives in a remote village in Ryedale and has been living on her own since her husband died a few years ago.

She saw a poster for Ryedale Carers Support in her local shop and decided to give them a call. She now has a volunteer visitor who visits once a week for a couple of hours and it has made a positive difference to her life.

Joan said: "Sometimes I wouldn’t see anyone all week and I missed talking to someone. I find it hard to get out these days as I had to stop driving so I can’t get to see my friends like I used to. Having a volunteer come and see me gives me something to look forward to again and she’s become a real friend."

Ryedale Carers Support will be holding drop-in sessions in libraries in the run-up to Christmas for people to find out more. They take place on Monday, December 5 – Pickering Library, 10am to 2pm; and Friday, December 9 – Helmsley Library, from 10am to noon.

For more information, phone 01751 432288, visit ryedalecarers.org.uk