Older people are increasingly stepping forward to act as volunteers, due to the increased pressure on health and social care services.

New research from older people’s charity, Royal Voluntary Service, reveals 4.7 million people aged 55 and over plan to volunteer in 2017.

And the study shows they want more people to follow suit - nearly two fifths (37%) of 55s and over surveyed say the country needs more volunteers in the wake of health and social care service cutbacks.

Royal Voluntary Service is one of the largest volunteer organisations in the country. It has 35,000 volunteers, a large number of which support older people in hospital – from providing practical help and companionship on wards and making a patients’ stay in hospital more comfortable, to assisting older people return home.

Given demand on services is set to grow, Royal Voluntary Service says more needs to be done to promote the benefits of volunteering, particular to older people.

Royal Voluntary Service’s volunteers help older people stay active, independent and able to continue to contribute to society. They do this by providing practical and emotional help where and when it’s needed. To find out more about volunteering opportunities available in the area, visit: www.royalvoluntaryservice.org.uk, tweet them at @RoyalVolService or call 0845 608 0122.