We are developing Timebanking throughout Perth & Kinross. We have started with two communities, Coupar Angus and Aberfeldy and are looking to branch out.
What is Timebanking?
Timebanking promotes two way volunteering, using time as its currency. Time Banks reward people for the help they provide to others. For every hour of help you give, you receive one time credit. You can use these credits to ask for help with the things that you need. You can give whatever skills or services you have. Everyone has something to offer and everyone’s time is valued equally.
How Can Time Credits be Used?
A Timebank member can exchange their credits when they need something done. For example, they might want to get a gate fixed, have their dog walked or get someone to collect their doctor’s prescription. They can also choose to donate time credits to someone else or to a community organisation.
Who Can Join a Time Bank?
Anyone can join a Timebank! Timebanks are totally inclusive, irrespective of age, gender or culture.
What’s in it for you?
• Meeting new people and making new friends
• Trying something new
• Using and developing your knowledge, skills and experiences
• Getting the help you need when you need it
• A flexible volunteering opportunity – fit it in when you can
• Feeling rewarded for your contribution to your neighbourhood.
When you join the Timebank, you provide details of the skills, talents and experiences that you would be prepared to share with others. We may call you to ask if you have the time to help someone else in need of your skill.
If you need help, just contact us with your request. It’s our job to find someone to help you. The Timebank is the point of contact for everyone. We keep track of who does what, and make sure that everyone’s credit records are kept up-to date. You don’t have to earn time credits before you can spend them. You can ask for help from day one. You may feel you have needs but think you can offer nothing back. The Timebank may still be able to help.
Time banking is flexible – you help when you can. You do not have to commit yourself to specific days or times. You can do as much or as little as you want.
The following are examples of the sort of services people share:
• Giving lifts or escorting people to appointments
• Shopping or doing simple errands for someone
• Decorating, DIY or simple home repairs
• Visiting elderly people at home and providing companionship
• Lawn mowing, weeding, hedge trimming and plant watering
• Housework
• Alternative therapies such as massage, healing and Reiki
• Simple car and cycle repairs
• Using and teaching practical crafts like cake decorating, sewing, knitting, etc.
• Helping someone with their computer
Depending on the skills offered by members, the list of offers will continue to grow and expand with time and member numbers.
If you are interested in finding more about Timebanking or would like to explore the idea of Timebanking in your community, please contact us.
Visit www.timebanking.org to find out more about whats happening nationally with Timebanking.