TBUK CEO letter to the Guardian: Timebanking: A Practical Tool for Rebuilding Community Trust and Supporting Social Mobility

Timebanking: A Practical Tool for Rebuilding Community Trust and Supporting Social Mobility

In light of the recent unrest and the acts of violence that have shaken communities across the country, we find ourselves at a critical juncture. The events have brought into sharp focus the importance of community cohesion, mutual support, and the need to rebuild trust amongst neighbours and across generations.

I recently penned a letter to The Guardian highlighting how timebanking can serve as a powerful tool in this rebuilding process. In that letter, I emphasise that timebanking offers a practical and sustainable way to foster mutual support, trust, and opportunity, particularly for our young people who have been deeply affected by the recent turmoil.

I call on policymakers and community leaders to consider timebanking as part of a broader strategy to rebuild our communities, proposing the launch of a Social Mobility Programme that leverages timebanking to create equitable opportunities for youth. This initiative would aim to break down barriers and provide young people with the skills and support they need to thrive, thereby contributing to a more just and cohesive society.

As time bank coordinators, you are in a unique position to play a pivotal role in this effort. By encouraging the exchange of time and skills within your communities, you help to create networks of support that can bridge divides, reduce isolation, and foster a renewed sense of trust and solidarity. This work is more important now than ever.

We also encourage you to help spread this important message. Feel free to edit and share the letter with your local news outlets, community newsletters, and via your social media channels. Your voice can amplify the impact of timebanking in rebuilding trust and supporting social mobility in our communities.

You can read and download the full letter here, and it is enclosed below:

 

Dear Editor,

The recent unrest has highlighted the fragility of our communities and the strength that can emerge when people come together. As we reflect on how to rebuild in the wake of these events, it is essential to focus on practical, sustainable methods that foster mutual support, trust, and opportunity for all, particularly for our younger generation.

Timebanking offers a proven approach to achieving this. By allowing individuals to exchange time and skills on an equal basis, timebanking strengthens community ties and empowers people to contribute meaningfully to their neighbourhoods. As these exchanges take place, people from diverse backgrounds come to see the humanity and inherent value of others in their wider communities. This creates networks of reciprocal support that are particularly resilient during times of crisis.

Importantly, timebanking values everyone’s contributions equally, regardless of background or circumstance. This is especially powerful for young people, many of whom have faced significant challenges in recent years. Disruptions to education and the emotional toll of these events have had a profound impact on their academic attainment and overall well-being. Reduced social mobility among young people undermines societal cohesion, economic prosperity, and the principles of fairness and opportunity, while stifling innovation and under-utilising talent.

Timebanking UK proposes the launch of a Social Mobility Programme designed to create equitable opportunities for young people through the principles of timebanking. By facilitating the exchange of skills and services, timebanking fosters a sense of community, reduces isolation, and improves well-being. This model is perfectly placed to enable young people to overcome barriers and realise their full potential, contributing to a more just and cohesive society.

As we look towards national renewal, I urge those in positions of influence to consider timebanking as part of the solution. It is a model that has worked in communities across the UK and beyond, and it could play a vital role in helping us rebuild trust, solidarity, and opportunity in these challenging times.

Yours sincerely,

Sarah Bird

CEO, Timebanking UK

 

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Timebanking UK Achieves Cyber Essentials Plus Certification: Ensuring Trust and Security for Our Members

We are thrilled to announce that Timebanking UK has achieved Cyber Essentials Plus certification, marking a significant milestone in our commitment to providing a safe and secure experience for our members, partners and supporters. This certification demonstrates our dedication to upholding the highest standards of cybersecurity and data protection, ensuring that our members can engage in timebanking activities with confidence and peace of mind.

Cyber Essentials Plus is a rigorous certification scheme developed by the UK government to help organisations protect against common cyber threats. Achieving this certification requires undergoing an independent assessment of our cybersecurity measures, including testing of systems and controls to ensure they meet the required standards.

Sarah Bird, CEO of Timebanking UK, expressed her enthusiasm about this achievement, stating, “At Timebanking UK, the security and privacy of our members are paramount. Achieving Cyber Essentials Plus certification reaffirms our commitment to maintaining a safe and trusted environment for our members to connect, collaborate, and make a positive impact in their communities. We hope this achievement demonstrates to potential corporate partners that Timebanking UK is of high calibre, ensuring that collaborations with us are not only meaningful but also conducted with the utmost professionalism and security.”

Guiding us through this comprehensive process was James Ryan from The Idea Agency, whose expertise and dedication were instrumental in successfully navigating the complexities of Cyber Essentials Plus certification. James commented, “It was a pleasure working with Timebanking UK on their journey to Cyber Essentials Plus compliance. This certification not only demonstrates their commitment to cybersecurity but also positions them as a reliable and professional organisation for potential collaborators.”

Our Cyber Essentials Plus certification signifies our adherence to essential cybersecurity practices, including secure configuration, boundary firewalls, access control, and more. By achieving this certification, we reinforce our dedication to protecting the personal information of our stakeholders and ensuring the integrity and availability of our timebanking platform.

For our current and prospective members, this certification provides assurance that Timebanking UK takes their security seriously and is continuously investing in measures to safeguard their data. It also opens up new opportunities for collaboration with businesses and organisations that prioritise cybersecurity and risk mitigation in their partnerships.

As we celebrate this achievement, we extend our gratitude to our members for their continued trust and support. Together, we will continue to empower communities, foster connections, and create positive social change through the power of timebanking.

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6th Annual International Timebanking day

The theme of International Timebanking Day, 23rd March 2024, was the power of connection to heal the world. As always it was an uplifting and enlightening celebration, with participants from all corners of the globe. Hosted by Timebanking UK CEO, Sarah Bird and TimeBanks.Org CEO, Krista Wyatt, the event saw an exchange of innovative timebanking ideas and experiences. Every year our movement grows – and International Timebanking Day is a testament to the global community making that happen through its commitment to fostering reciprocity, building communities, and creating social cohesion.

Video link

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TIMEBANKING UK AT THE FOREFRONT OF SOCIAL CHANGE:

GOVERNMENT AGREES THAT TIMEBANKING HOLDS MERIT FOR UK COMMUNITIES.

Tuesday 27th February 2024 saw Deidre Brock Member of Parliament for Edinburgh North and Leith, in Westminster Hall to pose the following:

 

“I beg to move, that this House has considered the potential merits of Government support for timebanking.”

As a Trustee of Leith Time Bank, Ms. Brock has personal experience of the power in timebanking to transform the lives of individuals and strengthen communities. Ms. Brock was joined at Westminster Hall by Sarah Bird, CEO of Timebanking UK (TBUK), the national charity leading and advocating for timebanking in the UK.

Success Stories and Impact: Ms. Brock illustrated the transformative impact of timebanking on individuals and communities. Members reported increased social connections, improved mental health, and enhanced community belonging as key outcomes of their participation. By fostering cross-generational interactions and breaking down social barriers, timebanking initiatives have become lifelines for many individuals.



Ms. Brock went on to emphasise the critical role of timebanking in combating social isolation and building community resilience. Citing statistics revealing a decline in social trust and increasing rates of loneliness, Brock underscored the need for initiatives like timebanking to bridge social divides and promote inclusive communities. Drawing on the expertise of TBUK she advocated for a three-year national programme to expand timebanking networks, enhance public awareness, and provide training for social care professionals.

The members discussed the invaluable contributions of TBUK, committed as it is to co-producing empowerment and social cohesion alongside community, organisations and corporate partners. TBUK, was invited to contribute to the substance of the debate, highlighting the organisation’s pivotal role over two decades in fostering inclusive communities across the UK. TBUK provides essential resources, including training, support, and software solutions, to time banks nationwide.

TBUK has civic engagement at its core, equipping local communities with the tools and knowledge needed to establish and sustain the timebanking networks that deliver impact at a hyper-local level. By amplifying the voices of local time banks and facilitating collaboration among stakeholders, TBUK continues to drive positive change at both the grassroots and policy levels.


“It is inspiring to see the positive impact that timebanking brings being recognised and endorsed as a cornerstone of positive social change, community engagement and well-being”.

Dr. Stefan Fafinski DL, Chair of the Board, Timebanking UK


Government Response and Future Directions: Rt. Hon. Stuart Andrew MP, the Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Culture, Media, and Sport, welcomed Brock’s advocacy and expressed a willingness to explore further collaboration with Timebanking UK. As the Minister for Loneliness, Andrew acknowledged the importance of volunteering and community engagement in addressing social isolation. He recognised timebanking as a valuable tool for fostering social connections and emphasised the need for innovative approaches to community building.


“It is truly striking to see how time banking can help to foster those social connections and help local communities and economies to thrive.”


Rt. Hon. Stuart Andrew MP


Timebanking UK remains committed to representing and advocating for the UK timebanking movement – empowering communities, fostering social connections, and creating a more equitable society for all. By championing the principles of reciprocity, inclusion, and mutual support, TBUK stands as a testament to the power of collective action and grassroots innovation in addressing pressing social challenges. Top of Form

The debate culminated in a vote of support for timebanking initiatives, marking a significant milestone in the movement’s journey. With a clear mandate from Parliament, efforts to expand timebanking networks are poised to receive increased momentum and resources. Moving forward, continued collaboration between policymakers, community organisations, and volunteers will be crucial in harnessing the power of timebanking to create more connected and inclusive societies.

Timebanking UK extends an invitation to all communities, non-profit organisations, and businesses that would like to be part of this drive toward greater civic engagement.

For all enquiries please contact rebecca@timebanking.org

 

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Westminster Hall debate on the potential merits of Government support for Timebanking

Timebanking UK Announcement

We’re thrilled to announce that Deidre Brock MP has secured a Westminster Hall debate on the potential merits of Government support for Timebanking. The debate, titled “Potential merits of Government support for Timebanking,” is scheduled for Tuesday, 27th February, from 4:00 PM to 4:30 PM in Westminster Hall.

Our CEO, Sarah Bird is thrilled to have this opportunity on behalf of the national timebanking community Timebanking UK represents and advocates for. The work done by community members across the country, as part of the timebanking movement  so often plugs the gaps left behind by statutory services. Deidre Brock MP’s commitment to promoting timebanking as a solution to modern community challenges is commendable as it recognises this quiet, consistent and compassionate work.

This is a golden opportunity to shed light on the transformative impact of tim ebanking in fostering community bonds, tackling social isolation, and supporting vulnerable demographics. We encourage all interested parties to attend the debate in person at Westminster Hall or follow the live proceedings via Parliamentlive.tv.

Details: 📅 Date: Tuesday, 27th February 🕓 Time: 4:00 PM – 4:30 PM 📍 Location: Westminster Hall, UK Parliament

How to Attend: 👥 Members of the public can attend debates at Westminster Hall. Find more information on attending debates here.

📺 Can’t make it in person? You can still follow the live proceedings via Parliamentlive.tv – Commons.

NOTE TO TIMEBANKING MEMBERS & SUPPORTERS: Please contact your local MP and encourage them to attend. Visit Who is my MP? for contact details.

The potential benefits to grassroot communities, of parliamentary backing for the timebanking method are numerous and far-reaching

Social Cohesion: Timebanking fosters stronger bonds within communities by encouraging reciprocal exchanges of skills and services.

Government support would amplify this effect by legitimising and promoting timebanking initiatives, thereby strengthening social cohesion and trust among citizens.

Inclusivity and Empowerment: Grassroots timebanking empowers individuals from diverse backgrounds to contribute to their communities based on their unique skills and talents.

Government endorsement would further promote inclusivity by ensuring that all members of society, regardless of socioeconomic status, have access to and benefit from timebanking opportunities.

Community Resilience: By facilitating the exchange of services and resources among community members, timebanking enhances local resilience in the face of challenges such as economic downturns or natural disasters.

Government backing would provide additional resources and support networks to bolster community resilience efforts.

Health and Well-being: Engaging in meaningful exchanges through timebanking improves individuals’ mental and physical well-being by fostering a sense of purpose, belonging, and connection to others.

Government recognition of the health benefits of timebanking would lead to the integration of such initiatives into public health strategies and social care programmes.

Economic Sustainability: Timebanking offers a cost-effective way to address community needs without relying solely on monetary transactions. By leveraging the skills and resources already present within communities, timebanking contributes to economic sustainability at the local level.

Government endorsement would further incentivise participation in timebanking, thereby promoting economic resilience and resource efficiency.

For updates and further information, follow us on Twitter @TimebankingUK.

Together, let’s build stronger, more connected communities through Timebanking!

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‘Potential merits of Government support for Timebanking’

Deidre Brock, MP for Edinburgh North and Leith, talks about initiatives and fresh ideas in an article published in advance of a Westminster hall debate on Tuesday the 27th February.

Here is the link to the lovely piece of writing:

https://www.leithermagazine.com/leither156/deidre

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