We use a currency that rewards people for co-operating and caring for each other and it costs us nothing to produce it. Time is there to be used and we all start each day with an equal supply, so why not use it?

Make it fun and make sure people are active so that they have a plentiful supply of the good feelings that come from helping others. Remember the greatest assets you have are the people who are involved.

Some fundraising can help but don’t let one person take on the burden. If the time bank is working it will mean something special to people and they will be happy to help fund it. Don’t be shy in asking for donations. There are plenty of people looking for a way to help by giving to good causes.

Grants without strings are around and it is very fashionable to fund what is now called ‘community engagement’. Your Local Authority is required to link with local community groups so offer them the chance to link with you in exchange for covering some of your costs.

People will come and go and people will be more and less active at different periods in their lives. Don’t worry about it.