The underlying principle of the Retired and Senior Volunteer Programme is that the health of both the individual volunteer and the community benefit from the volunteer's activity. In particular, for retired people over 50, evidence brought together by BUPA shows that the mental, social and physical stimuli of volunteering can be a significant aid to maintenance of good health in older age. At the same time, the community is enhanced by the application of the practical, administrative and social skills acquired by older volunteers from a full working life. In fact, everyone wins.

RSVP in Cornwall is working in partnership with a variety of organisations and in a wide range of interests or abilities to suit the volunteer's own preferences.

In primary care there are volunteers helping in hospitals, doctors's surgeries, medical centres, many specialist patient clubs and, of course, the very necessary car service to support their activities. We work with Age Concern, Red Cross, WRVS and many others.

Individual volunteers are helping with a variety of tasks in primary schools and with projects in community colleges and European links.

There are wide ranging opportunities working with art galleries, libraries, gardens and environmental projects. Really whatever the interest RSVP can match each volunteer to a community need.

RSVP is a volunteer led organisation with a co-ordinated network of support through CSV (Community Service Volunteers). The Cornwall region is in need of organisers who are willing to take the initiative in their area, working from home, to recruit and place and support older volunteers in their own communities.

It is rewarding work and there is freedom to plan your own time and to develop your own ideas locally. You will be insured and expenses will be paid as well as introductory training and on going support. Why not give something back to your community and thereby enjoy yourself and keep healthy.

Roger A Hemsley, Gweek