Opinion: Here's a chance to make a real difference to older people's lives. Interested? Then Pete Kelley tells us more...

At birth, the Buddhists say, everyone is given the key to heaven. The same key opens the gates of hell. There's one to ponder - or, indeed, choke on your coffee over.

'Think on', as my Dagenham granny would have said. And frequently did.

But people are 'keys' too. We unlock potentials in each other, and anyone can unlock a bit of change in the world, if we find where to apply pressure.

The theme of these columns, over the last couple of years, has most often been my own gradual unlocking of the meaning of volunteering, since I retired. It's an area where everyone - whatever their skills - can make a difference.

And what's particularly interested me, over that time, is the way an organisation gradually gets to know someone who knocks on the door, and finds out where they fit.

In my case at Age UK Norwich, where I do most of my volunteering, I've worked on the reception desk, helped with media coverage, and been trained to assist older people filling in forms to get financial help. I've talked to those who make regular social visits to older people and to others who teach older folk computer skills.

I've visited the wonderful staff at our Marion Road Centre, which offers places to those living with dementia.

There are volunteers in all these areas, and more.

I was also invited to join the trustees - a privilege and a steep learning curve, mixing with phenomenally experienced individuals, often from a health or social services background, who give their time, again free, to help guide the charity's strategy.

In that context, I was recently asked to look after a small sub-committee, taking a bit more responsibility.

One way and another, I'm doing things I didn't know I could do - which is, in itself, a pleasure at my time of life (66). You could say I'm unlocking myself.

And right now, our organisation is looking for a new 'key'.

Our energetic fundraising manager wants help to do research on corporate contacts. We already get some great support from businesses, but we could do more - she says - if only there were enough hours in the day.

I asked her what's involved.

'This is an office-based role,' Emma said. 'It's not about going out and fund-raising. I'm hoping for someone who is happy to sit in front of a computer, and do some research on local fund-raising opportunities with companies, and perhaps make some phone calls. It could be of huge benefit to us.'

So there you have it.

Strikes me this could equally suit someone younger, looking for work experience, or a retired person like myself. Could you be our new key?

Give Emma Roper a call on 01603 496323, or email emma.roper@ageuknorwich.org.uk