AN appeal has been launched for volunteers to give a ‘Gift of Time’ to help others this Christmas.

Ryedale Carers Support (RCS) is looking for people to help them combat loneliness and isolation among carers and older people living in the area.

The charity provides a free volunteer visiting service for residents who would benefit from some regular company and a friendly face visiting them on a regular basis.

RCS Chief Officer, Claire Hall said:”The winter months can be difficult for those who care for someone at home and older people who live on their own. The shorter days and colder weather can make it harder to get out and about and many feel increasingly lonely and isolated, particularly those living in out of town areas with little or no access to public transport.

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

Claire said the charity relies on a team of dedicated volunteers and is keen to encourage local 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 added. “Every year, the demand for our services increases and we are always in need of more volunteers, so whilst everyone is busy compiling Christmas lists we are asking people to consider giving a gift of their time this winter – just a small amount of your time can provide a lifeline for the people we support.”

Ryedale Carers Support will be holding drop ins in the run up to Christmas, so if you would like to find out more about becoming a volunteer visitor you can go along for an informal chat on the following days:

Monday, December 2 – 10am – 1pm, Pickering Library

Friday, December 6 - 10am - 12 noon, Helmsley Library

For more information phone 01751 432288 or go to www.ryedalecarers.org.uk