A TYNESIDE charity is looking for members to take part in a new initiative designed to help the local community share their skills and expertise.
Age UK North Tyneside have officially launched the North Shields Time Swap project at an event at North Shields Library.
The Time Swap initiative is for anyone of any ability or background aged 18 or over, in the local area, and aims to help people in the community connect and share their skills with one another.
Appointing a dedicated timebanking coordinator, Age UK North Tyneside will manage the time and work out which expertise can be shared, and link participants with other Time Swap members in order to help everyone involved develop their own new skills.
Timebanking coordinator, Emily Sinclair, believes that the project has huge potential to help people and businesses develop their skills and expertise, and to benefit the whole of North Shields.
Emily said: “The project provides people with a way to share talents and experiences, whilst learning new skills and helping to build connections throughout the local community.
“For every hour of time you give, you receive a one hour of credit to work alongside someone who has a different skill you may want to learn.”
Some skill areas identified for the project include, gardening, computer skills, translation, DIY help, craftwork and cooking skills.
Emily continued: “We are really excited to announce the launch of the Time Swap project.
“We have been working really hard with our partners around the North Shields area to get the initiative underway and we can’t wait to get the local community on board.
“We are looking for people to share all types of skills and expertise and in return, you will also get to learn from other talented people within the area.
“So whatever your skill or background, whether it’s gardening, cooking, computers or languages, we are interested in hearing from you.
“We believe that giving the people of North Shields this platform to come together to share and enhance their skill set can have a highly positive effect on the area.”
For more information on the Time Swap project, or to register your interest, please contact Age UK North Tyneside Timebank coordinator, Emily Sinclair on 07725 321089 or 0191 280 8480.