12th March 2004
TIME BANKS - A VALUABLE COMMUNITY RESOURCE


Staff from The Dearne Enterprise Centre, have been active in recognising there could be some real local benefits in investigating the concepts of Time Banks in Barnsley Dearne.

Time Banks are a way for people to come together and help each other. Participants ‘deposit’ their time by giving practical help and support and are able to ‘withdraw’ their time when they need something done themselves. People help each other with everything from making phone calls to sharing meals and giving lifts to the shop - anything that brings them together. Social Enterprise Barnsley can offer advice and assistance to groups wishing to start their own Time Bank.


Louise Silcock, Gail Harrison, Melanie Coles, Claire Watson and Sharon Adams (pictured above) attended a Time Banks Workshop run by Social Enterprise Barnsley on 20th February 04.

Maureen Bates, Business Adviser, Social Enterprise Barnsley, said, “Time banks work like a local currency; they allow people to get things that they may not be able to afford in cash. Time Banks are in operation all over the world and I am certain this will work well in Barnsley. It was a very enjoyable day and a pleasure to work with such an enthusiastic group.”

Gail Harrison said, “The workshop was very interesting. I can see that Time Banks could be of great benefit to the individuals involved as well as developing a community spirit. It would be great to see local people getting involved and enjoying the benefits of their own local Time Bank.”

As part of the special events taking place at the Dearne Enterprise Centre from 8th until 11th March, Maureen will be available for further information on Time Banks and other services on offer through the Social Enterprise Barnsley on Thursday 11th March from 11 am to 1 pm.

If you think Time Banks could work in your area then contact Maureen Bates at Social Enterprise Barnsley on 01226 784 444.



END

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Press Contact: Sarah Hopwood
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Barnsley Development Agency
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Email: shopwood@barnsleydevelopmentagency.co.uk





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