A LOCAL charity is appealing for male volunteers

Kirkbymoorside based Ryedale Carers Support is looking for men to join them as a volunteer sitter.

The charity’s Community Development Worker, Sarah Lally-Marley said that they currently had a waiting list of people wanting a male volunteer, so they are keen to recruit men from the Ryedale area who can spare a couple of hours a week or fortnight to volunteer for their sitting and visiting services.

‘We support a number of carers who are caring for a male partner, relative or friend and would value the opportunity to have some time for themselves,” she added.

“We also support a number of elderly gentlemen who live alone and would value some regular company, but we currently have a lack of male volunteers.”

Sarah said: ‘We find that many would prefer a male volunteer as they often share common interests. We have found that in some cases, the volunteer is the only person they may see in that week, so the friendship and company they provide has been vital in preventing the loneliness and isolation that many of those who use our service have experienced.”

Volunteers do not provide any medical or personal care, their role is simply to provide friendly and supportive company. All out of pocket expenses, such as travel expenses are met by the charity and volunteers have the opportunity to meet other like-minded peoplel.

Sarah said: “The work we do offers a rewarding sense of satisfaction and you will be helping people often overlooked in the busy day to day life of our local community, so if you can spare a couple of hours of your time on a regular basis we would love to hear from you.”

For more information phon Ryedale Carers Support on 01751 432288, email enquiries@ryedalecarers.org.uk

For further information on the charity and the free services that they provide please visit their website www.ryedalecarers.org.uk