Barb's Wire with Cheltenham councillor Barbara Driver

AS people are getting involved with volunteering in so many different ways, both in their communities and across the town, they are finding that this is a win-win situation both for the volunteer and those receiving the help and support.

The 18 to 25 group are now enjoying and gaining experience through volunteering and I suggest it would help more young people aged from 13 to 17 to leave school with some extra experience. It would show something special about that person on a CV or college application.

I know the pupils at the Ladies' College do a lot of volunteering across Cheltenham, encouraged and helped by their teachers. I wonder if more schools which do not already do a similar thing could help a young person gain the experience before they leave school. The school that my grandchildren go to does just that and this is what they require of their pupils.

■ Eight hours each over four years in high school.

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■ To prove that hours have been completed a form must be signed by a reputable adult.

■ If not completed, it shows as a fail on the high school transcript.

■ Community service can be anywhere, as long as not directly aiding you, or someone you know.

■ Each year a community service results in quarter of a high school credit.

■ This service credit if required in order to graduate.

■ The majority carry on over and above this basic requirement.

Young Gloucestershire will help with advice. Look on its website, contact it on 01452 501008 or email admin@youngglos.org.uk

Invaluable

Older people who have free the time after retirement or as their responsibilities lighten also enjoy getting involved in their communities. One area where help is invaluable can be seen at the Cheltenham General hospital, both on the wards and in general help and information. They are special people which the management and nursing staff could not do without. Charities can always use more help.

For some advice as to what is needed where and how to get involved in whatever your interests, go to the internet or there are local organisations that can give you advice.

■ The Third Sector Services on 01242 515388 or info@thirdsectorservices.org.uk

■ Cheltenham CVS on 01242 227737 or Jo Brown at www.cheltenhamCVS.org.uk

When I became a widow and my children left home it gave me a purpose for getting up in the morning and gives me back far more than I put in.