B&NES Council has highlighted how volunteers strengthen local communities and encouraged people to think about how they could help others in support of International Volunteer Day.
Bath Foodbank volunteers Angela Donald and Gillian Mequita | Photo courtesy of Stephen Sumner
International Volunteer Day was designated by the United Nations in 1985 as an international observance day to celebrate the power and potential of volunteerism.
Volunteers not only make a significant contribution to neighbourhoods in Bath and North East Somerset but their roles also benefit them in a variety of ways including building confidence, increasing the chances of paid employment and the satisfaction of giving something back to their community.
Staff from Bath Central Library showcased their volunteering opportunities at the library and championed the existing volunteers by publishing their book reviews on the Bath & North East Somerset Libraries Facebook page.
People are also being reminded that time is running out for nominations for the council’s Community Awards to celebrate the unsung heroes in Bath and North East Somerset.
A number of volunteers were among last year’s winners. Nominations close on 20th December. For more information, visit: www.bathnes.gov.uk/communityawards
Anyone wishing to find volunteering opportunities across the district is being encouraged to take a look at these links:
Banes Community Volunteers Services is run by Virgin Care and commissioned by the council – the team promote volunteering opportunities as well as identify suitable candidates for local charities and community organisations. They also assist local organisation in recruiting and managing volunteers and can provide advice and support.
https://bathneshealthandcare.nhs.uk/wellness/community-volunteer-services
Council Volunteers – the council manages volunteering roles in different service areas and advertises these on its Jobs and Careers pages.
https://jobsandcareers.bathnes.gov.uk/
Volunteering at one of Bath & North East Somerset’s Libraries – email [email protected] find out more.
Timebank is a National Charity connecting those interested in volunteering opportunities.
NCVO works to support organisations and volunteers throughout the UK.
Duke of Edinburgh’s Award scheme – volunteering aimed at young people aged between 14-24.
Do-it advertises 1,000’s of volunteering opportunities across England.
