First impressions are often the truest...

I haven’t been with WRVS long, but plenty long enough to form a first impression.

I admit; it’s fair to say that before I applied for my job, I wasn’t particularly clued up about exactly what WRVS does – Meals on Wheels and hospital cafes are probably the stereotypical activities that spring to mind. I did, of course, do plenty of research before I had my interview, and couldn’t believe how many different activities WRVS is involved in.

Without wanting to sound pious (I do work here after all), within the first week of being here, I knew I had made a good move.

Visiting projects, and talking to volunteers and people who use WRVS services made it strikingly obvious that the work that goes on here is – using one of my favourite PR phrases – a lifeline for older people.

It may be a cliche, but it isn’t an exaggeration. Without services like Meals on Wheels, Books on Wheels, community transport...a frightening number of older people wouldn’t see a friendly face, or be able to leave the house, for months on end.

I can honestly say, hand on heart, I am already incredibly passionate about what WRVS does.

It’s easy for those who don’t fully understand the work of the charity to dismiss it as insignificant.

The social impact report we produced shows that the activities WRVS allows older people to take part in – a trip to the seaside, having a cup of tea with friends, not having to worry about how to get to a doctors appointment – has a real effect on physical and mental wellbeing. And that’s very significant.

But not enough people know what services are available for older people, or appreciate what a difference the work of the charity makes. Therein lies the challenge.