As Volunteers’ Week celebrates its 30th birthday (1-7 June), West Sussex County Council is taking the opportunity to say thank you to the many people who volunteer some of their spare time to help others.
The week celebrates the contribution made by millions of volunteers across the UK and locally in West Sussex there is a choice of volunteering opportunities for residents to choose from.
The theme for this year is ‘Time To Say Thank You’ – encouraging people to celebrate and recognise local volunteers in their communities and challenge people to take part themselves.
Volunteering is not just about helping others; it is a great opportunity to meet new people and learn and develop new skills, while gaining valuable experience to utilise in other roles and possible future employment.
Louise Goldsmith, West Sussex County Council Leader (pictured), told The Sussex Newspaper: “Volunteers do tremendous work throughout the county day in, day out and really do make a big difference.
“They are very much valued and respected for their contribution and commitment to volunteering and we are extremely grateful for the service they provide.
“Volunteers Week is an opportunity to support their efforts and recognise their achievements.”
Catherine Mouatt, Family Resource Service Manager for the County Council, highlighted the efforts of volunteers who have offered to drive young carers to groups, clubs and activities to give them a break from the extra responsibilities they have at home.
She said: “The Young Carers volunteer transport project has been fantastic in improving access for young carers to local youth groups and positive activities, raising their self-esteem and self-confidence, and giving them opportunities to make friends.
“Volunteers have given their time, energy and enthusiasm which has been much commented on by parents, young people and youth workers, we cannot thank them enough.”
Wendy Walker, County Archivist at the West Sussex Record Office, said: “Over 50 volunteers currently give up their time to work with us on archive and conservation projects at the West Sussex Record Office, including the Heritage Lottery Funded Chichester Festival Theatre Project ‘Pass It On’ and the Graylingwell Heritage Project.
“They make a tremendous contribution to the Record Office and we very much appreciate all of their enthusiasm and hard work.”
Examples of our volunteering roles include:
- Fire and Rescue Service;
- Fun and Breaks;
- Day Centres;
- Volunteer Rangers;
- Library service;
- Independent Visitor Scheme;
- Children and Family Centres;
- Youth Services;
- Waste Prevention Advisors;
- Royal Voluntary Service; and
- Red Cross.