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The value of volunteers was vividly demonstrated during the Covid pandemic when we saw thousands of people step forward to help those who quickly became vulnerable when usual patterns of shopping or travelling to loved ones changed; or, later, in support of the work of our vaccination centres – work that continues on. During the pandemic, the government’s Culture Recovery Fund provided vital support to ensure community groups could weather the crisis and to maintain vital networks of volunteers. Volunteers are at the heart of strong communities, and we recently had the chance to recognise and thank them for the fantastic contribution volunteers make to our civil society during Volunteers Week. Volunteering offers a wealth of benefits to those involved, enabling people to take control of their lives, contribute to their local areas, gain new skills and new friendships.
Richard Fuller, MP for North East Bedfordshire Volunteers and voluntary groups are so effective in making a local community a better place to live and we are fortunate in North East Bedfordshire to have so many active volunteers.
The government can play a role too. Recently £4.6 million was provided to give thousands of young people, people with disabilities and those experiencing loneliness, the opportunity to volunteer and help others. More than 160 community organisations will be able to support 7,800 new volunteering opportunities over the next two years through the Volunteering Futures Fund. The fund will be distributed by Arts Council England (ACE) and will break down barriers to volunteering and enable organisations across the arts, culture, sport, civil society, youth and heritage sectors to continue their valuable work within local communities while volunteers will enjoy the personal benefits of making a difference. This new support will deliver a step-change for those who may be isolated, lonely or experiencing any number of potential barriers to getting involved in volunteering. To find out how to volunteer in your local community and give your time to help others, please visit www.gov.uk/government/get-involved/take-part/ volunteer If you would like me to visit an organisation or charity you volunteer for, please email me at richard.fuller.mp@parliament.uk
