Agewell partnership honours volunteers

The partnership, which provides support older people throughout Ballymena, Larne and Carrickfergus, is behind a number of projects including ‘Age Champions’ from Citizens Advice Bureau, Good Morning Ballymena and Good Morning East Antrim.

MEAAP chairperson Caroline McKeown highlighted that without the support & dedication of volunteers, MEAAP could not carry out its work.

“Over 75 volunteers have been involved, with over 5,750 of volunteer hours captured. This equates to over £36,000 of match funding” added Deirdre McCloskey, MEAAP project development officer.

Sinead Quinn of Volunteer Now also announced that the MEAAP Timebanking Initiative had secured £3,000 of funding support, whereby older people will be recognised equally for the valuable skills and expertise they have.

The new opportunity allows participants to earn time credits by giving practical help and support to others at a time, date and location that suits them.

One hour of service given earns one credit. Participants can then exchange that credit for an hour of something they need like training or recreation.