Age UK Birmingham seeks volunteers for new men's group

Age UK Birmingham is looking for volunteers to help run a new social group for older men at Sheldon Heath Social Club.

The pilot project aims to support "the wellbeing, social connection, and confidence of older men in the local community".

Why a group for men

Older men are often less likely than women to join social groups or to talk about how they are feeling, and they can be at particular risk of loneliness, especially after retirement or bereavement. Groups designed around shared activities, conversation and a relaxed setting can make it easier for men to take part.

How to get involved

Age UK Birmingham has published a role description for volunteers who want to help set up and run the group. Volunteers must be 18 or over, and some roles need a DBS check.

Other volunteering roles

The charity is also recruiting for a range of other roles, including:

• activity group leaders
• falls prevention volunteers, who carry out home safety checks
• information and advice volunteers who help with forms
• memory care activity volunteers and drivers
• reception and administration volunteers
• retail volunteers in its charity shops

Why volunteer

Volunteering can help people meet others, learn new skills and feel part of their community, as well as making a real difference to older people who might otherwise be isolated.

Loneliness in later life

Age UK estimates that more than a million older people in the UK regularly feel lonely. Simple steps such as a regular phone call, a visit or an invitation to a local group can make a difference.

Contact

To find out more, email volunteering@ageukbirmingham.org.uk or call 0121 437 0033. Applications can be made online through the Age UK Birmingham website.