MALVERN charity Onside has launched a new concept enabling people to help each other in their communities in a unique way.

Called Time Bank, it allows people to share their time and skills to support each other, and rewards people for the time and effort they put into their neighbourhood.

For every hour of help that someone gives, they get one time credit. People can use these credits to spend on things that they might need help with.

Everyone has something to offer from dog walking, to helping someone with shopping, to fixing a fence, mowing a lawn or even baking a cake, the charity says.

Cathy Jackson-Read, director of business development at Onside, said: "This is a first for Onside and for Worcestershire.

"Time Banking is a great way of building stronger, more sustainable communities. We aim to demonstrate the value of this approach in Malvern and secure ongoing funding to extend the pilot and develop time banking in communities across the county."

The four month pilot has been launched after councillor John Raine stumped up the cash to fund it from his divisional fund.

Cllr Raine said: "It's such a simple idea, and one which I am sure will help build on the great sense of community being fostered by the hard work of Malvern Vale Resident’s Association."

After it was launched in late August, more than 20 people have signed up for more information on the scheme.

To find out more, call 01905 27525 or email caroline.screen@onside-advocacy.org.uk