Do you have a question about Good Neighbours? We’ve put together a list of the most frequently asked questions to help. If you still have further questions, drop us an email at admin@dev.voda.org.uk or call 0191 6342626 during office hours.
1. Who does Good Neighbours scheme help?
The scheme is open to anyone aged 18 or over who is a resident of North Tyneside and unable to complete the task themselves due to health, age or disability and has no one else they can call on for help.
2. How can I refer to Good Neighbours for help?
To request support from Good Neighbours for yourself or on behalf of someone else, please click the following link. https://forms.volunteero.org/view/ae2b993e-7c97-4559-a6bb-cf190a956b25
3. What roles can a volunteer get involved in?/In what ways can a volunteer help?
You can shop on behalf of someone; drop-off a prescription, help someone get out into the community by being a buddy; assist with a DIY tasks or odd jobs; tidy up a garden during the spring or summer; move furniture; or help with a Happy to Chat or Sing along session.
4. How do I sign up to be a Good Neighbour?
You can sign up to be a Good Neighbour by clicking on this link and completing the form.
5. Who do I contact?
To find out more about the project, you can contact one of our Good Neighbours team during office hours:
- Emma.Bradwell@dev.voda.org.uk / 07596806378
- Jen.Hewitt@dev.voda.org.uk / 07547288182
Alternatively, you can contact the VODA office on 0191 643 2626.
6. What types of roles can I get help with?
You can get support with shopping or prescription drop offs if you have no one else to assist you. Our volunteers also help people to get out into the community by being a buddy; assist with a DIY tasks or odd jobs; offer a yearly garden tidy up during the spring or summer; move furniture, and support local Happy to Chat or sing along groups.
7. Do you offer support to attend medical appointments?
No, Good Neighbours volunteers cannot assist with anything that requires specialist knowledge, tools or is a health and social care need.
8. Can I work volunteering around me?/Is the role flexible?
Here at The Good Neighbours project, we list opportunities on the Volunteero app. As one of our volunteers you’ll be given exclusive use of the app, meaning that you can choose from a range of volunteering opportunities that suit your lifestyle. See more on how the app works here.
9. What makes a good volunteer? What does being a Good Neighbour involve?
If you’re looking for a friendly and flexible volunteering opportunity then look no further. The Good Neighbours project has a number of roles available, so finding one that suits your interests and location is easy. You don’t need any particular skills or experience, just the desire and willingness to help people in the community who need it.
10. Do you offer a befriending service?
No. At Good Neighbours, we focus on supporting people to remain independent in their homes as long as possible through small acts of kindness carried out by volunteers. We do offer a short-term buddying role with the aim of getting people into their communities. For befriending in the home, you may wish to contact other services such as Age UK North Tyneside.
11. Do I need to pay anything towards the service?
No, this is a free service provided by volunteers.
12. Are the volunteers DBS checked?
Yes, for some roles. Some following government issued guidance
13. Do I have to pay for a DBS check?
No, VODA will cover the cost of a DBS check should you need it.
14. Will I get my travel expenses covered?
Yes, we can reimburse you for any travel you undertake as part of your volunteering role. We reimburse at 45p per mile for cars or 20p for bicycles. We can also cover the cost of Metro or bus tickets used when volunteering.
