Time banks are mutual volunteering schemes whereby neighbours help each other through transactions that do not use money but 'time credits' as currency. Mutual help increases the social capital of the community as well as its wealth and health. In current times of crisis, time banks are more needed than ever.

The Rushey Green Time Bank (RGTB) is the first one to be based in a General Practice, where doctors can refer patients to the time bank. Thus, GPs can give more holistic care as they have a new resource to 'treat' social needs. You now have the opportunity to visit this unique experience through the Spandoc Time Bank 2-week scheme. Open to all health or social care professionals.

You can find more information about Time Banks and RGTB at:

http://www.rgtb.org.uk

http://www.timebanking.org/history.html

http://timebanks.org/about