Time Bank: Volunteering with a difference

Imagine a world where money does not exist, and skills and time are traded equally. Well it does exist and it exists on your doorstep.

Planting and making things at Kingswood House

Time banking started in Paxton Green surgery three years ago and has been leading a quiet revolution in the Dulwich area. Time banking is different from normal volunteering, One hour = 1 time credit with every one’s time being equal. Participants ‘deposit’ their time in the bank by giving practical help and support to others or to the community, and are then able to ‘withdraw’ their time when they need something done themselves, or would like to take advantage of various opportunities.

Time banking is a way for people to come together to help others and help themselves at the same time, in this way, new skills may be learned and friendships made. Also, since each time bank is based in a particular district, community links are forged and strengthened.

Fix and Mend

This quote was taken from a volunteer member at time bank: “I went to the doctor depressed, not walking, putting on weight and the doctor said “Try the Timebank”. I wanted to change my whole lifestyle… there is always something going on with Timebank., so I’m not at home you know  eating cake and biscuits. I’ve been so busy this Summer and it’s all been so positive.”

There is almost no limit as to what can be included in time banking, people have helped each other out by gardening, life coaching, visiting, cooking, and decorating even writing poetry together!

Paxton Green Time Bank is based in Kingswood House and would love to have more members and more support. To find out more, to join or support it, do call Alison Paule, the development manager, on 8670 0990 or visit our website http://www.pgtimebank.org/.