What is a Time Bank?

Westminster Carers Time Bank is the first time bank for carers in London. Members are able to help and support each other by exchanging their skills, sharing their local knowledge and attending time bank events.

A Time Bank is a way for people to share their skills to help each other. For every hour of help you give, you receive an hour’s ‘time credit’, which can then be ‘spent’ receiving help from another time bank member; No money ever changes hands and you can get help as soon as you become a member.

Here’s how it works

Members list what help they need and the help they can offer. Whatever the skill, it’s valued equally; you receive or spend one time credit for one hour of help, whether that’s walking someone’s dog or doing some accounts. If it’s hard for you to get out, you can earn time credits at home  and you will soon be able to spend your time credits with local businesses and services in Westminster.

Skills being offered by members:

• Translation
• Book keeping
• Language lessons: French, Italian, Spanish
• Giving lifts
• Basic computer skills

Members need help with:

• Teach reading
• Dog walking
• House sitting
• Simple decorating
• Cooking/Baking

Want to become a member?

Download the leaflet   complete it and return it to us, or contact us for more information. Check News and Events for the latest news about regular time bank events or read our newsletter

FAQ

Please click the question to view its answer.

Is there a charge?

No money changes hands. Being a member of the Time Bank is completely free.

Are all skills worth the same?

Yes. Every hour of help is worth one time credit.

What happens after I sign up?

You sign up by completing the Time Bank skills questionnaire in the Time Bank information leaflet Once you are accepted as a member we create an account for you. We then match your requests for help with a member with the right skills and match your skills to a member who needs help. As soon as you start giving and receiving help you can earn and spend your time credits.

Can I get help straight away?

Yes, all members can ask for help from day one. Just put in as much as you take out.

Doesn’t Time Banking do people out of their jobs?

No it doesn’t. Time bank members volunteer their time and skills. People with particular skills will still be able to continue to earn a living doing their jobs.

Can I access resources from other Time Banks?

Yes,  we will be associated with businesses and leisure facilities and other time banks in Westminster where you can spend your credits.

How are credits logged?

At the end of each exchange, both parties agree the amount of time spent/received by completing and signing the Exchange completion form. If you received help your account is debited and if you provided help your account is credited. You can contact us to find out your balance at any time and we will email you a regular statement.

Can I donate my time credit?

Yes, if you find yourself earning and not spending, you can donate your credits to someone you know who needs help. Just contact us and let us know.