The Vital Role of NewstrAid’s Welfare Volunteers

Since 1839, NewstrAid has been a lifeline for people working in the sale and distribution of newspapers and magazines across the UK. Providing financial assistance, emotional support, and practical advice, the charity’s enduring mission continues to change lives—an effort once supported by Charles Dickens, a past president of the charity.

At the heart of NewstrAid’s support system is its network of dedicated Welfare Volunteers. Welfare Volunteers make a profound impact through regular phone calls and home visits, helping to combat loneliness and ensuring beneficiaries receive the support they need. Feedback from current volunteers highlights just how rewarding the experience can be, often bringing as much joy to the giver as to the receiver.

“Our Welfare Volunteers are at the very heart of what we do,” says Katie Babooram, scheme manager. “Whether it’s a friendly chat or a reassuring visit, these interactions make a real difference.”

In recent years, telephone support for beneficiaries rather than in person visits has allowed the charity to fill any gaps where it was difficult to find a local volunteer. This has also allowed the charity to recruit more working people who have made use of their company volunteer days or even their lunch breaks to make calls.

In addition, NewstrAid are working hard to create a sense of community for the volunteers by hosting regular virtual catch ups and events like an annual lunch in London where they can come together and share experiences.

The majority of NewstrAid’s volunteers come from newspaper and magazine backgrounds, which helps build strong connections with those they support and all new volunteers undergo a DBS check and a short induction to prepare them for their role.

For more information about NewstrAid and their welfare volunteers visit their website: www.newstrAid.org.uk/welfare-volunteers.