Older people are being urged to help themselves by helping others.

Retirement property developer McCarthy & Stone has joined forces with the Royal Voluntary Service to help promote the many benefits that volunteering can have.

The developer is urging residents at its Horsforth complex to help others in need.

Fiona Brooks, regional sales and marketing director, said volunteering could provide a more active and gratifying lifestyle for people as they grow older.

“Extensive research undertaken by Royal Voluntary Service in recent years proves just this, revealing that those who volunteer are happier and have a better quality of life,” she said.

“For that reason alone, we felt that it was important that we do our bit to showcase just how easy it is for over-60s to pledge some time, and in turn improve not only their own wellbeing, but that of others in the local community.”

The developer has chosen the Royal Voluntary Service as its charity of the year, and is aiming to raise at least £75,000. To find out more about volunteering, call Royal Voluntary Service on 0845 608 0122. To help McCarthy & Stone support the work of RVS text MCAS13 followed by the donation amount (e.g. £3, £5 or £10) to 70070.