Community Matters: Make your time count with this new work-scheme

Your time is precious; why not join the Timebank and make it count!

You can phone someone who doesn't get out much and have a chat; you can visit a housebound person or give a carer a break for an hour; or if you feel energetic, you can go for a walk with someone needing that support to get out; you can do a bit of gardening or a bit of shopping for those who can't manage. You can offer whatever you enjoy doing. Anything you do for others is needed and appreciated.

This is how the Timebank works: You can earn a time credit for every hour you give, which you can spend with others on the Timebank. No money changes hands, and whatever you do has the same value. For instance, you may help someone with their mobile phone, someone else may do some gardening, and both activities earn one-time credit for every hour. You can use your time credits for something you need yourself if you want to.

To join the Timebank, visit TorbayTogether.org.uk. You must register on Torbay Together, then fill out a separate form to join the Timebank. If you need more information or help joining, get in touch with me or your community builder.

I was impressed when I visited the Steam Discovery Centre, in Torbay Road in Paignton. It is Devons' only dedicated science museum and as of this week. The 'Discovery Room' is up and running, has loads to do and costs £5 for as long as you want. You can also spend some of your time credits on a visit to the discovery centre!

We have a BIG EXCHANGE coming up at Rosegarth in Torquay on 25th March starting at 12pm. This is an exchange of goods instead of time. Bring along something to give and take something you want!

My regular venues are:

• The Crafty Fox. 103 Foxhole Road, Paignton., The last Friday in the month from 10am (bingo session from 11am)
• The Tea Shed. 9 Parkside Road, Paignton. The first Tuesday in the month from 10.30am
• Steam Discovery Centre and coffee shop. 13, Torbay Road, Paignton the second Tuesday in the month from 10.30am
• Centre Peace, 56a Palace Avenue, Paignton, on the first Friday in the month from 2pm
• The Bright Bean café, 319 Torquay Road, Preston. Every Wednesday from 2pm
• The community café 4-8, Temperance Street, Torquay. The first Thursday in the month from 10.30am
• Preston Baptist Church, 62 Old Torquay Road, Preston. The second Thursday in the month from 10am
• Torquay Library, Lymington Road, Torquay. The third Thursday in the month from 10.00am

Come to any of these venues or give me a ring and I can meet you wherever suits.

I can be contacted by phone 07703715236 or email (see above)

WE HAVE WHAT WE NEED WHEN WE SHARE WHAT WE HAVE