Torbay Community Development Trust are organising a Volunteer Recruitment Fair at Paignton Library on Thursday 1 st June to mark the start of Volunteers’ Week. Rachael MacLoughlin, Volunteer Centre Development Officer explains, ‘We’re excited to be working alongside a number of local charities to showcase their volunteering opportunities. There are a variety of roles available to fit in alongside your other commitments from organisations looking to recruit people just like you! If you’re looking to develop your existing skills or learn a new one, meet new people or help a good cause, then pop down between 3-5pm to see what’s on offer.’
Volunteers are central to the work of countless charities and other organisations. They are a valuable presence in many communities, making a difference in places as diverse as sports clubs, libraries, schools and hospitals.
Hundreds of events will be taking place across the country to mark Volunteers' Week. The annual campaign, which was established in 1984, recognises the contribution volunteers make to our communities every day.
Charities across the UK will hold events to thank their volunteers and celebrate the power of volunteering to bring communities together. Last year more than 900 events took place, from awards ceremonies to tea parties and barbecues.
For many charities the week will also be a chance to showcase the range of volunteering opportunities on offer. Volunteer fairs and other events will encourage people to try volunteering for the first time and help people find out how through volunteering they can make a difference to a cause they are passionate about.
Volunteering facts
- In 2012-13 volunteering output contributed an estimated £23.9billion to the UK economy. This is equivalent to over 1.5% of GDP.
- 21.6 million (42%) people in the UK volunteer formally at least once a year and 13.8 million (27%) of people do so at least once a month.
- There are 162,965 voluntary organisations in the UK, many of whom rely on volunteers.
- Lots of volunteering also takes place within the public and private sector. For example, there are an estimated 3 million people volunteering in health and care.
For more statistics visit http://www.ivr.org.uk/ivr-volunteering- stats
