FAQ’s

How much does it cost?

Nothing at all – you give just your time to help others in the community.

What if I have no skills to offer?

You’d be surprised at how often we hear that. We value every day acts of being a good neighbour – Popping to the shop to buy a pint of milk, being on the end of a phone talking to someone who is housebound, sharing your experience and knowledge, being a good friend to someone – We are sure there are things you are already doing that you may not recognise. Come and chat to us and we will find lots of things you can offer.

Will it affect my benefits?

Not at all – being part of Fair Shares doesn’t affect your benefits, in fact the job centre recommend it as a way to get back into work.

How many hours do I need to volunteer?

You do as much or as little as you want. It’s important you are happy giving your time doing things you enjoy. So that could be an hour a week or an hour a month. Or for some people it’s hundreds of hours a month.

How is timebanking different to traditional volunteering?

The main difference is that it’s a two way thing. We try to get people in the community to support each other through give and take. Everyone has the opportunity to help others, and everyone can get things back in return. Also the timebank is a large community of participants. So you have the opportunity to meet with others on a social level as well.

What if I don’t want anything back, can I still join?

Of course you can. Many people might not need something straight away, but you never know when you might just need an extra pair of hands and you can give us a call. Also you could donate your hours to someone else – maybe you have a neighbour or family member who could use a helping hand. Or you can donate your hours to the community pot.

Who can join the timebank?

EVERYONE!