A DORCHESTER charity is reminding local people about a scheme that helps people with small, one-off tasks they are unable to do on their own.

Age UK Dorchester launched its Good Neighbour scheme in March 2015, aimed at helping anyone aged over 50 who may need help with simple tasks.

It now operates in Weymouth, Portland and surrounding villages as well as the county town and has helped nearly 200 local people since it was set up.

Examples of the types of tasks that the Good Neighbours can help with include changing a light bulb, reaching a high cupboard or re-tuning a television.

Funded initially by a Dorset County Council fund, a minimum donation of £3 is suggested to cover expenses.

The scheme is working in partnership with Medvivo Careline, which will be the initial point of contact and will pass requests on to a volunteer co-ordinator.

Lisa Holmes, head of care at Age UK Dorchester said: "The scheme provides a useful service for any older person who may struggle with a one off task.

"All volunteers are registered with Age UK Dorchester and have had a Disclosure and Barring check as well as training on visiting people in their homes and confidentiality."

She added: "If anyone has thought of volunteering in the past, but felt that it was too much of a commitment, becoming a Good Neighbour would fit in with a busy lifestyle as the volunteer states when they are able to complete the task.

"It really does fit around when they are available and the tasks they wish to help with."

So far Good Neighbours have been called upon to carry out various tasks including hanging a couple of baskets for the garden, changing light bulbs, taking items to a charity shop and sewing on buttons.

The scheme is unable to help with transport or regular work such as gardening, cleaning, care work or befriending but Age UK is able to signpost to other organisations if they are not able to help.

There is no limit to the number of tasks that people can request help with.

If you have a one off task that you need help with and would like to request a Good Neighbour call 0300 777 1037 or email goodneighbours@ageukdorchester.org.uk

If you would like more information about the scheme or would like to discuss becoming a Good Neighbour volunteer contact Lisa on 01305 269444.