NorDDiS is a unique charity run entirely by unpaid volunteers. It was started in 1994 by a group of disabled people who wanted to help others achieve a better quality of life. Since then, NorDDiS has continually changed in order to fulfill the needs of our customers, which now include a high proportion of elderly carers.
Objective
As a charity our objective still is:
To help people with disabilities living in North Dorset and the surrounding areas, so that they may lead more active and fulfilling lives in.
The shop
Many of our clients require help in obtaining equipment. We find that wheelchairs are needed short term for hospital visits or elderly relatives visiting the area. We also hire out crutches, walking frames, commodes etc. enabling people to cope at home.
We sell disability equipment and aids for daily living at a reasonable charge, thus helping NorDDiS meet their costs. We have identified a gap in the provision of continence aids and we keep supplies in stock to cope with emergencies. We supply NHS hearing aid batteries – see “Advice, Hearing aid assistance”.
Other needs identified are residents in our rural areas with very limited public transport. In special circumstances we may be able to deliver items purchased or hired from us, within a limited area.
NorDDiS volunteers, themselves elderly or disabled, empathise with customers and are keen to help relieve some of their difficulties and give them a better quality of life. We are always pleased to accept new volunteers. Our shifts are 10-1pm or 1-4pm. Why not call in the shop for a volunteer pack.
Our Charity is highly regarded by Dorset Council Social Care personnel. They regard our volunteers as caring, professional and efficient. We get many referrals from Doctors’ surgeries and chemists throughout the area.
