Royal Voluntary Service already provides essential services to tens of thousands of people throughout Britain. We support people at home, in communities, and in the NHS through a wide range of services, including helping those who are coming home from hospital alone, taking patients safely to and from their medical appointments, transporting people to buy their shopping or meet their friends, and by providing companionship for those who are isolated. We also provide lunch clubs where older and vulnerable people can enjoy a hot meal in the company of others in a warm and friendly environment.
Demand for our services is rising. By the end of this year, we are anticipating we will need to support 360,000 people. And with an increased need for our services, there is a demand to recruit, train and mobilise 50,000 volunteers.
Last year, our volunteers drove over 1 million miles delivering our services to older and vulnerable people in Britain, but the recent hike in fuel prices will mean that some people can no longer afford to volunteer. This will have devastating consequences on those who are desperately dependent on our services, at a time when demand is growing. Without additional donations, we simply aren’t going to be able to be there for everyone who asks for our help this year.