Did you start the new year with a resolution to play a bigger role in your community? If so, this may be the opportunity you’ve been looking for.

This week we were contacted by Action on Hearing Loss (formerly RNID) who are looking to reach out to people to join the charity’s volunteer team and help support people who experience hearing loss in the Lewisham area.

There are approximately 33,000 people living with hearing loss in Lewisham, Action on Hearing Loss runs a Hear to Help service which helps local residents to make the most out of their hearing aids by offering advice and practical support, such as re-tubing and new batteries. Based within the local community, it allows NHS hearing aid users to access this vital maintenance closer to home than the University Hospital Lewisham, saving them time and giving them a chance to get valuable guidance from the trained volunteers which run the service.

If you are able to give two hours of your time each month the charity would like to hear from you to help keep the services running.  The charity will provide training and guidance for new volunteers, regular support meetings, equipment, expenses, opportunities to develop new skills and the chance to meet other like-minded people.

Stephen Bell, Community Services Manager for London and the south east at the charity said: “We’re looking for enthusiastic people of any age from the local area to use their time, skills and talent to benefit the one in six people across Lewisham living with hearing loss. Volunteers will not only have the chance to make a positive impact in the everyday lives of people in their community, but can also make new friends and enjoy fun and rewarding experiences.”

To find out more about volunteering opportunities with Action on Hearing Loss, click on the following link http://www.actiononhearingloss.org.uk/get-involved/volunteer.aspx or get in touch directly; contact Rachel Akindele on telephone 07436837453 or email heartohelp.lewisham@hearingloss.org.uk