As Volunteers’ Week is celebrated across the UK, everyone at Age Concern Hampshire would like to take the opportunity to say a huge thank you to the remarkable volunteers who support our charity every day.

Across Hampshire, hundreds of volunteers generously give their time, skills, energy and compassion to help older people live well, stay connected and remain independent. From welcoming members at our Care & Wellbeing Centres and supporting community social groups, to helping with administration, driving our minibuses, maintaining gardens, assisting at events and sharing professional expertise, our volunteers make an invaluable contribution to everything we do.

Brogan Rehill, Head of Strategy, Partnerships & Community Impact at Age Concern Hampshire, said:

“Our volunteers are the heart of Age Concern Hampshire. Every conversation, every smile and every hour given helps make a real difference to older people across Hampshire. We are incredibly grateful for the time, compassion and dedication our volunteers bring to our communities every day. Quite simply, we could not achieve what we do without them.”

The difference our volunteers make extends far beyond practical support. For many older people, a friendly conversation, a warm welcome or simply knowing that someone cares can have a significant impact on their wellbeing. These moments of connection help reduce loneliness and isolation while creating stronger, more connected communities across Hampshire.

One of those making a difference is Anne, an Age Concern Hampshire volunteer, who said:

“I really enjoy talking and listening to clients. Some of them don’t have much contact with people, so it’s lovely to know that having a chat can make their day.

Volunteering gives me a sense of purpose. It’s nice to feel needed and to know that I’m making a difference.”

Our volunteers bring something truly special to Age Concern Hampshire. Many have strong links to their local communities, valuable life experience and a genuine passion for helping others. Their local knowledge helps us reach people who may otherwise go without support, while their kindness and dedication help create welcoming environments where older people can thrive.

Des Smith, Trustee at Age Concern Hampshire, said:

“Our volunteers are the heart of Age Concern Hampshire. They give their time so generously, and the difference they make to older people’s lives — their confidence, their wellbeing, their sense of connection — is something of which we should all be incredibly proud.”

As a charity, we simply could not deliver many of our services without the support of volunteers. They are at the heart of our organisation, extending our reach, strengthening our impact and helping us support more older people across the county.

Helen Callen, Chair of the Board at Age Concern Hampshire, added:

“As Chair of Age Concern Hampshire, I am continually inspired by the dedication of our volunteers. The compassion, practical and professional support you provide enriches the lives of older people across Hampshire every day. Your contribution is fundamental to achieving our mission to support our community through accessible, high-quality services.”

Volunteering is also a rewarding experience for those who choose to get involved. Many of our volunteers tell us they have gained new friendships, developed confidence, learned new skills and built stronger connections within their communities through their volunteering roles.

Adrian Thorne, Trustee at Age Concern Hampshire, said:

“I would like to take the opportunity to thank our volunteers for their commitment and dedication to the work they undertake for all the people the charity supports. Without you we would not be able to be there for our clients, their carers and families at a time when they most need support. The impact that you have cannot be underestimated. Thank you.”

During Volunteers’ Week, we want to recognise and celebrate every individual who chooses to volunteer with Age Concern Hampshire. Whether they give a few hours each month or several days every week, every contribution matters. Every act of kindness, every conversation and every hour volunteered helps us achieve our mission of supporting older people across Hampshire.

To all our volunteers, past and present, thank you. Your generosity, compassion and commitment make a real difference to the lives of older people every single day.

You are an essential part of Age Concern Hampshire, and we are incredibly grateful for everything you do.

Interested in Volunteering?

If you would like to make a difference in your local community and support older people across Hampshire, we’d love to hear from you. We offer a wide range of volunteering opportunities to suit different interests, skills and availability.

Visit our volunteering page to find out more about current opportunities and discover how you can join our incredible team of volunteers. Give time by volunteering – Age Concern Hampshire