Friendly
support and
companionship
Friendly
support and
companionship
Friendly
support and
companionship
Firendly
support and
companionship
At Hands, our aim is to enhance quality of life and help maintain cherished independence for those in need, in Twickenham and St Margarets.
With our local volunteers, we act as good neighbours, help with small tasks and provide friendly support and companionship to those in need, especially older people and those who are isolated or housebound. We work closely with our clients to understand their needs and ensure we are able to offer appropriate support.
Joining Hands costs nothing and our support is freely given.
Support & Services
We work closely with our clients to understand their needs and ensure we are able to offer appropriate support. If we are unable to help directly, we will signpost to alternative services. Joining Hands costs nothing and our support is freely given.
Volunteers Gallery
Words from our clients
In my mid 70's with no family, no computer and various health issues, things were getting very difficult for me. Hands were able to organise a weekly shop for me which was a Godsend. I receive a weekly call to ask how I am and to take down my shopping list and have a friendly visit from my shoppers. It has made such a difference to my life.
The range of help and advice Hands offers is quite amazing - from grocery shopping, getting to local hospitals, going on social events such as coffee mornings, boat trips and talks. They are an ever helpful source of advice and support. Without Hands I would have difficulty coping with everyday living.
I am grateful to HANDS for providing support with IT - something I would have difficulty accessing otherwise. Instruction is given generously and with patience on the part of the volunteer and I am pleased to report some success in keeping up with modern communication and access to the internet which is so important when getting out and about is no longer as easy as it used to be.
The social events are well organised, and the volunteers always come over to talk to you which allows you to get to know them all over time. The homemade cakes at the afternoon teas are delicious, there’s always a wide selection to choose from and you’re often given some to take home!
I get taken out for a weekly shop and it's a real little treat. I have someone to talk to and she helps me choose things. It really makes my day and you feel part of the world again.
A big thank you to all the wonderful volunteers. They are so willing to help, showing much kindness and patience and always with a smile. Thank you, all of you.
Do you, or someone you know, need help?
Contact our friendly team by completing the form below or calling us on 020 8891 3346
Frequently asked questions
What if I live outside the Hands catchment area?
We serve specific postcodes in Twickenham and St Margarets. If you live outside our area, there are similar organisations across Richmond borough that may be able to help you. Click here to find out more.
What is Hands unable to support?
Hands is unable to provide support with personal care, prescription collection, help with medication, house cleaning or financial advice. Although our volunteers support clients with small gardening and DIY jobs, we are unable to lift/move heavy furniture or offer professional gardening and DIY services (eg painting and decorating). We are also unable to accept referrals or support those with a diagnosis of dementia as our volunteers aren’t trained to support with this.
Is there a waiting list for services?
There is a waiting list for our Shopping Bus and Befriending service, it can take up to three months for spaces to become available. Please note that Hands is supported by volunteers, and although we try to support every client request, sometimes this isn't always possible due to volunteer availability.
Where can you provide transport to?
Hands is able to offer transport to medical or well-being appointments, including social outings in the local area. Please note, transport requests are limited to one request per week per person.
Can someone take me for a walk or shop with me at a supermarket?
If you would like one of our volunteers to take you out for a walk or coffee or accompany you to a supermarket, please get in touch so we can understand your request in more detail.
Can I bring my carer to an event?
If you’re unable to attend a social event or outing independently and need a carer to accompany you for support, you can request to bring a carer. Please note that this is dependent on the number of spaces available, and you may be asked to cover the financial contribution for your carer.
Is there a contribution for social events?
Services offered at Hands are free, however we sometimes ask for a small contribution for social events. We want to make our services as accessible as possible and understand that a contribution may be difficult for some people. In these circumstances, we can waive the fee.
How do we recruit volunteers?
How do I make a referral as a professional?
If you’re a professional and would like to make a referral on behalf of a client, please contact the office on 020 8891 3346 or email info@handscaregroup.org.uk. Please note that we are unable to accept referrals for those with a dementia diagnosis.