British Red Cross looks for Highland volunteers to help those in temporary need of a wheelchair

Last year the Red Cross helped 234 people in the Highlands get moving again while dealing with the aftermath of illness, surgery or injury.

Those able to give up a few hours of their time each week will be given full training, with those friendly and affable in nature encouraged to apply.

Red Cross mobility aids service manager Lesley Kerr stressed: “When someone is recovering from an accident or illness, having a wheelchair can help them complete daily tasks and make the difference between being stuck at home and getting out and living life.

“Volunteers use people skills to support people at what can be a very difficult time, finding the right wheelchair and providing much-needed emotional support and understanding.

“We are looking for compassionate people of all ages and backgrounds with a couple of hours to spare, who would like to do something really positive for the local community. We also need drivers who can deliver wheelchairs to people’s homes.”

The British Red Cross has loaned wheelchairs since the First World War. How to borrow or hire a wheelchair is one of the most popular search topics on its website. Volunteers are given full training.

Potential applicants can visit redcross.org.uk or pop into their local Red Cross branch.

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