What We Do

Teddy Bear Task Force

It’s amazing how small, cuddly, knitted bears, only 9” high, can speak all languages and break all barriers. They have no passports, but their goodwill missions take them to the war torn areas of the world (and there are many of these) to comfort the children who are left with so little. And, in this country, in the role of ‘trauma teds’ they travel with the fire service and are given to children to help soothe their fears. Thousands of
these teddies have been knitted, packed and shipped by RSVP volunteers. To this can be added miniature clothing for premature babies and knee blankets for nursing homes.

Having Fun And Pushing Back The Barriers

A very important part of RSVP is the friendship and enjoyment that comes from our activities and the pleasure we get from each other’s company. After all, 10,000 volunteers mean 10,000 different backgrounds and life experiences, and the diversity if great! Besides the social occasions we share, such as outings and lunch clubs, there is also the opportunity to learn new skills – computing, writing newsletters, taking part in dancing and drama groups –even absailing, if that’s not a jump too far! Another way of pushing back the barriers is to become an organiser. This means deciding on the activities you think your community needs, gathering volunteers and then making it all happen as a team Organising uses all your life skills and is a real challenge. But a satisfying one!

Green Fingers

Gardening and environmental projects are a valuable way for the generations and communities to come together. Skills learned many years ago can be shared when there   is land to be restored and school gardens to be built, and working together shakes up preconceived ideas about what it means to be young or old. In addition, keeping the garden of a less able person in good trim and often means the difference between them staying in their home or going into residential care. RSVP volunteers take an active part in all these projects, and have even won a Silver Medal at the prestigious Chelsea Flower Show.