Could you volunteer for your local Guide Dogs fundraising group?

The local branch of sight loss charity Guide Dogs is looking for new volunteers in the Torbay area.

They’re looking for people to join the local fundraising group, which organises community events and collections to help raise much-needed funds.

The charity relies on donations to keep its vital services running and has local fundraising groups across the country. This means that people can volunteer in their local communities and make a difference, while getting involved with a fun and positive group. The Torbay group are looking for people to help manage the charity merchandise at fairs and events.

In this volunteer role, Guide Dogs are looking for someone who can use their creative skills to put together appealing displays of merchandise, as well as managing inventory and storing items for future use.

Annette Solomon, who organises the volunteer group and is also a guide dog owner herself, says:  “My guide dog Abi has literally changed my life, and I wanted to give something back. I have more confidence in going out on my own and I have been able to get my independence back. That’s the reason I volunteer.”

Stephie Millin, Volunteering Coordinator at Guide Dogs says:  “Volunteering has so many benefits to your local community and the people you are helping, but also to yourself as a volunteer.

“Being a volunteer is so rewarding as you can gain new skills, knowledge and experience, make new friends and it can improve your health and wellbeing.

“Our fundraising groups are very friendly and welcoming and a great way to meet local people and make a positive difference to the lives of people who are blind or partially sighted.”

There are around 35,000 people living with sight loss in Devon. While they are not all registered blind, their visual impairment is significant enough to impact their daily lives.

Guide Dogs provide a range of services from the iconic guide dog service, support for children and young people and sighted guides to help people get out and about more.

Full training and support for volunteers is provided. To apply, go to https://www.guidedogs.org.uk/volunteer or for an informal conversation contact Pam Gratton via Pam.Gratton@guidedogs.org.uk