Timebanking

Added: 20/07/2011
Updated: 24/11/2011

What is it?

Timebanking is a new and exciting way for people to come together to help others and help themselves at the same time. Participants 'deposit' their time in the bank by giving practical help and support to others and are able to 'withdraw' their time when they need something themselves.

Giving and Receiving Time

Timebanks measure and value all the different kinds of help and skills we can offer each other, but they are very egalitarian. In a time bank, everyone becomes both a giver and a receiver.

Everyone's time is valued equally: One hour = 1 time credit

A 'broker' (often a paid worker) facilitates and records exchanges between individuals and develops the membership of the Timebank. The broker interviews people when they join the timebank and helps people work out what they can contribute as well as what support they need from others.

People help each other out with everything from making phone calls to sharing meals and giving lifts to the shops - anything that brings them together:

Help when you need it ~ DIY ~ help with the kids ~ trips out ~ exercise ~ making friends ~ shopping ~ new grandparents ~ talking on the phone ~ having a break ~ gaining new skills ~ crafts ~ going to the park ~ cooking ~ getting to know your neighbours.

  • Timebanks and health improvement
    These briefings provide an introduction to how timebanks can be adapted successfully in the health sector, to keep people healthy, to speed up recovery and to save scarce NHS resources.
  • The Business case for timebanks
    These reports make the case for timebanks to policy-makers, managers, practitioners and commissioners. They show how timebanking can be a tool to help organisations to meet different agendas and priorities...