Volunteers hailed for going that extra mile
Praise for local heroes’ help during cold weather
A councillor has praised the work of the Environmental Training Team and other Paisley volunteer organisations.
Members unanimously passed Kenny MacLaren’s motion at the full council meeting to recognise the good work carried out by the ETT.
The SNP man said: “I was pleased that my motion in support of volunteer friendly organisations, and particularly the environmental training team, was passed unanimously by councillors.”
His motion highlighted the benefits of volunteering within Renfrewshire’s communities, which includes boosting self- esteem, health and enhancing employment prospects.
Councillor MacLaren, member for Paisley Northwest, said that the ETT, which is based in St Ninian’s Church Hall, Ferguslie, is an example of a volunteer-friendly organisation.
The team works with communities all across Renfrewshire providing a range of services including decorating, gardening and general community clean- ups, including assisting in Renfrewshire Council’s Team Up to Clean Up campaign.
As well as volunteering opportunities, ETT provides training and works with a number of organisations ranging from the council, West College Scotland, Engage Renfrewshire and local community councils.
This has included helping Syrian refugees in Renfrewshire achieve their Saltire Awards for volunteering.
Councillor MacLaren added: “There are many reports which highlight the positive impact of volunteering, not just on your health and self-esteem but also for improving employment prospects.
“ETT has an excellent track record on taking on volunteers, providing them with an incentive to get active and help out their local community, as well as providing relevant training. This has led to a number of their volunteers obtaining employment.”
“During this recent spell of cold weather, teams from ETT have been very busy clearing paths around the Tannahill Centre, in Ferguslie, ensuring that the elderly and anyone with mobility issues could access the GP practice and other services based there.
“ETT volunteers were also checking with local pensioners to see if they needed bread, milk or even help getting any prescriptions picked up.
“On top of this, the teams were also clearing pathways to allow people to get in and out of their homes.”