Helping out helps Dereham

Have you ever thought you would like to help others but don’t know where to start? Have you sometimes thought it would be nice to get out more and meet new people?

We are lucky in Dereham to have many small community groups providing activities that all contribute to the life of the town and give us, as residents, the chance to try out new things and to learn from experts. Take the photographic club for example – there are many extremely good amateur photographers and members all share their knowledge and pass on ideas and techniques. They also bring in specialists to give talks and slide shows on particular aspects of photography.

We have a wide range of different sports club in the town, from running to hockey, cricket, swimming and even canoeing! Most of these are organised and run by volunteers, many of whom have experience of the sport and coach the youngsters. And behind the sportsmen and women, there is usually a small army of willing helpers who organise meetings and rotas, sort out meetings and flyers, plan fixtures and produce drinks and sandwiches to order!

Experience not needed

You don’t need to have experience of a sport or any specialism. In fact, it is often the willing pair of hands that is most needed in these small clubs.

Several groups would like help with publicity. This can take many forms, ranging from designing flyers and posters, to writing news stories and posting on social media. You really don’t need experience of these as there is always someone who can show you how to go about it.

Learn by doing

Many people would love to help with the carnival – so get in touch if you could act as a steward, walk with the parade or help with setting up on the recreation ground. There are also plenty of background tasks that you can help with if you prefer more of an admin role or can help with either event planning or fund-raising.

Dereham Windmill charity is also looking for people who would like to act as guides, greet visitors to the windmill and show them round.

Love Dereham needs people who can help by collecting food for the community fridge.

Dereham Town Council is looking for people to help with the Xmas lights switch-on.

Of course, people with previous experience and skills are also very welcome and at least one group would like someone who will help out in the office and with book-keeping. So get in tocuh if you would like to be involved!

If you would like to help, please contact hello@aboutDereham.org or call 01362 695084