Here's what our volunteers say

Asked in June 2025, Volunteer Janet Tibbalds explains why she’s been volunteering for 45 years

 

"From each according to their ability, to each according to their need!

“That sounds rather grandiose, but I think it captures why I volunteer and will continue to, as long as I am able and wanted.

I have been involved in volunteering, probably over 45 years in a variety of settings, but my greatest opportunity came when I was a Volunteer Adviser at Bromley Well partner charity, Citizens Advice Bromley.  I loved the challenge of helping to resolve clients’ problems and the reward that comes seeing them in a much better place than when they arrived. 

 

I now volunteer with Bromley Well’s Form Completion Service. The official forms, like Attendance Allowance, Carers Allowance etc - are lengthy and often emotionally difficult for clients.  But, these forms can be done very effectively by well trained and supported Volunteer form fillers. 

I started volunteering whilst still working.  After I retired I wanted to support the continuation of this great service and still do to this day.

We work to draw out the relevant information from the client, so that they can describe their problems and need for help most effectively. The rewards for the client are obviously financial – having the money to pay for some of the extra costs they face.  But for me and other Volunteers, the reward comes from knowing that you helped to make someone else’s life just that little bit better.

After thought:  We may be volunteers but we are not amateurs!” - Janet Tibbalds June 2025

 

More about Bromley Well's Forms Completion Service

During 2023 - 24, between them, Janet and her co Volunteers at Bromley Well:-

• Helped 611 Bromley residents to fill in official forms
• Each person received, on average an extra £3,320.49 / year income they were entitled to
• In total our Volunteer Form Fillers generated over £2000,000 income for Bromley residents during the year.

The Service, run by Bromley Well partner charity Age UK Bromley and Greenwich, has one part time paid Coordinator and this fantastic team of Volunteers. 

Their impact is astonishing and means so much to residents who for whatever reason, are unable to complete forms on their own.

All thanks and credit to the team – we salute you!

 

If you're ready to volunteer

Check roles available at Bromley Well partner charities

Or email volunteering@bromleywell.org.uk to find out more.