A CHARITY supporting older people is appealing for volunteers in Weymouth to help its efforts to tackle loneliness and isolation.

Age UK Dorchester is looking for people to support its Reach Out service, which works with older people who have become isolated.

Volunteers help people make new friends, find opportunities to meet others or just spend time with them sharing a cup of tea and a chat.

Head of care and support at Age UK Dorchester Lisa Holmes said: "I recently introduced a volunteer who's been unable to get out, or garden due to a recent stroke.

"They got on very well from the start, sharing the same enthusiasm for gardening, with our volunteer even learning a thing or two.”

One of the current volunteers added: "My mother was in a care home for a couple of years and always looked forward to seeing the volunteers who came to visit for a chat.

"I then decided that was what I wanted to do, help someone who can't get out and about, or has few visitors.

"When I visit I feel that I'm just popping around to someone’s house for a nice cup of tea and a good chat.

"I like the link, connecting with an older generation, and when I volunteer I feel that I'm connecting with my parents, who have both passed away."

Volunteers can give as little or as much time as they are able, fitting it around their existing commitments or work.

To find out more contact Lisa Holmes on lholmes@ageukdorchester.org.uk or phone Age UK Dorchester on 01305 269 444.