Side by Side is our fun, friendly, super-flexible volunteering opportunity for someone like you to help someone with dementia. Just because a person is diagnosed with dementia, it doesn’t mean they stop wanting to take part in their favourite activities.
Our Side by Side service helps people with dementia to keep on doing the things they love and try new things – from going to the football to catching the latest movie – so they can continue to lead an independent life.
As a Side by Side volunteer you will enable someone with dementia to be able to keep doing the things they love, to stay connected to their local community and to build the confidence to stay active and engaged in social and recreational activities.
What is Side by Side?
A splash in the pool, a mooch around the shops, a catch-up over coffee or supporting a person with dementia to volunteer themselves. Whatever they’d like to do, together you decide where and when.
One thing you can be sure of is bringing a lot of joy into someone’s life. There are nearly 1,000 people waiting for volunteers right now, so whatever your interests we need people like you.
Ways to volunteer
You can volunteer on weekdays, evenings, weekends and even over the phone. It’s a super-flexible way to give your time and it will make a difference to someone’s life.
You need to be 16 years-old or older to sign up, and we’ll provide you with all the training and support you need. Why not try one of the following?
- Face-to-face: As a face-to-face volunteer you can go wherever your shared interests take you – whether it’s a local garden centre, museum or café! It’s up to the both of you. Meeting in-person helps build familiarity, while people with dementia can still do the things they love.
- Telephone: You can also volunteer over the phone, either from your home or your local Alzheimer’s Society office. A friendly chat with a familiar voice can be a great source of comfort so is a great option if you’re not able to travel and meet face-to-face.
- Hospital: By volunteering at your local hospital you will provide invaluable face-to-face support to patients with dementia during their hospital stay. Get involved Become a Side by Side volunteer today – a couple of hours a week is all it takes.