Bognor Regis time bank launched

The initial members joined the scheme at a volunteers’ thank you day in the town’s Alexandra Theatre.

The time bank will work by sharing hours and skills between residents.

Among those deciding it was time to give and take were Carol Elliott and Tina Neal.

Tina, 56, of Bognor, offered to drive cars to a car wash, play a musical instrument and go walking, but sought help with basic DIY and the internet.

She said: “This is not just volunteering because you are getting something back in return.”

Carol, 65, from Felpham, listed lifts for shopping, basic book-keeping and catering among her skills while she sought gardening in return.

“It’s all about everyone mucking in together,” she said.

About a handful of volunteers agreed to join the time bank at the special day.

They will be over seen by volunteer time bank monitors Clare Gardiner and Judith Lee under the control of Bognor Volunteer Centre co-ordinator Derek Moore MBE at the town hall.

Mr Moore said he was encouraged by the reaction to the time bank.

“It’s all about a person giving up some of their time and receiving a service in return,” he said.

Skills which can be offered range from DJ-ing to publicity and promotional work, sports coaching and help with cooking.

Anyone over 18 can join.

The day also included displays by Arun and Chichester CAB, Outset Youth Action, the L’Arche charity, Fun and Breaks and Home-Start Arun.

Certificates were awarded to volunteers who went along as well as the chance to play computer games.