Volunteers add value to our communities
IN recent years, the contributions and recognition of the work that volunteers do in the United Kingdom has rightly received national appreciation. From games makers at the 2012 London Olympics to the NHS First Responders during the coronavirus pandemic, and even most recently the Big Help Out as part of the coronation weekend, the efforts volunteers have undertaken has received significantly more limelight.
Thanks and praise are, of course, neither reason a volunteer chooses to do what they do, but it is important that we recognise the outstanding contribution volunteers make and the beneficial impact that their work has on our society.
From June 1 to June 7 it is Volunteers’ Week, an annual celebration of the contribution millions of people make across the UK who volunteer in their communities.
As a local MP, I see daily the value that volunteers add to our area.
They are always
They are incredible people dedicated to supporting others, and I pay tribute to every individual in Burton and Uttoxeter who gives up their time to volunteer, in any shape or form, big or small.
incredible people dedicated to supporting others, and I pay tribute to every individual in Burton and Uttoxeter who gives up their time to volunteer, in any shape or form, big or small.
However, the National Council for Voluntary Organisations (NCVO) recent report, Time Well Spent 2023, estimated that the pandemic has had a “profound” impact on volunteering levels.
The report stated that those organising or helping to run an activity has fallen by 52 per cent, from 14 per cent to seven per cent.
This Volunteers’ Week I want to thank all those who lend a hand in their community, but also encourage those looking for a new challenge or who are interested in taking up a new activity to consider volunteering in your local community.
You can find out what volunteering opportunities there are available in Staffordshire by visiting www.supportstaffordshire.org.uk/volunteering, or by calling 0300 777 1207.
■■The views and opinions of guest columnists do not necessarily represent those of either the Burton Mail or its staff