Volunteering

Volunteers were an integral part of our vision to make Thanet a great place to grow older from the very beginning of the project.

More than 200 volunteers, themselves over 50, were involved across all areas from governance to running activities and many are now continuing activities independently.

Ageless Thanet volunteers were recognised for their huge and valuable contribution to reducing isolation and loneliness in Thanet with the Queen's Award - the highest honour available to volunteers.

For the seven years of the project, they were at the heart of empowering communities, challenging stereotypes and ensuring older people’s voices were heard. Our thanks to you all!

For future volunteering opportunities, please sign up to the Social Enterprise Kent newsletter below.

How volunteering worked at Ageless Thanet

As part of the Ageless Thanet project, we supported the creation of bespoke volunteering opportunities for anyone aged 18+, which worked around the time, skills, and confidence of the individual wishing to volunteer. No matter how little time people had or how infrequently they might wish to help, we were able to find roles to match their skills and interests that made a huge difference to others.

Read more in our learning report on Taking a Different Approach to volunteering.

Watch video stories from our volunteers and find out about our impact and legacy here.

Other organisations working with older volunteers are welcome to adapt our volunteering policy below.