Somerset charities have launched a campaign to inspire more people to volunteer and overcome a pressing decline in numbers.
Led by Spark Somerset and supported by the Government’s Levelling Up scheme, the Volunteer - your time, your way programme hopes to showcase an array of roles and get more people into volunteering . The pandemic has seen a steady demand for volunteers not only on a national scale but specifically in Somerset.
The National Lottery Community Fund’s Community Research Index predicts this trend will continue into 2024.
A recent survey conducted by The National Council for Voluntary Organisations (NCVO) in June 2023, revealed the barriers to volunteering.
It found that 33 per cent of people were disinclined to volunteer due to a perceived long-term obligation.
Further 23 per cent were unable to reconcile it with work or study schedules, while 14 per cent expressed fear of lacking necessary abilities.
Hester Watson, from West Somerset Green Forum, said: "Up until the COVID-19 pandemic, we had a regular flow of volunteers coming through our doors.
"Today, we have a number of ongoing projects - which includes the upkeep of a community woodland to improve biodiversity and providing firewood for those who are living in fuel poverty.
"Traditionally, retirees have filled these roles, but as they step back, there is a pressing need for new individuals to step forward.
"From talking to our charity colleagues across the county, we know many are facing similar challenges."
Spark Somerset has introduced the Volunteer – your time, your way campaign in response to these challenges.
Its goal is to encourage Somerset residents to explore the multiple benefits of volunteering and to mitigate any obstacles deterring them from getting involved.
Saphron Gafney, 25-year old volunteer at Yeovil Railway Centre, said: "I have been volunteering at Yeovil Railway Centre for 18 months.
"I started volunteering due to my love of steam and heritage railways.
"I have since developed many new skills during my time, including planning and managing events, woodwork and restoration, which I wouldn’t have had the opportunity to do without Yeovil Railway Centre.
"The support I provide to the railway centre easily fits around my day job and I love that I’m able to give back to the local community!”
The NCVO’s 2023 survey also shed light on another positive aspect of volunteering, flexibility.
82 per cent of respondents felt the organisation they volunteered for was flexible with their time commitments.
Nina Hurst-Jones, head of operations at Spark Somerset, said: "Somerset offers an incredible range of volunteering opportunities, whether you’re looking to develop your CV, create new connections or simply find a sense of community.
"We’re shining a light on the diversity of volunteering across the county.
"Time is precious and so we want to help people to get involved in ways that work for them.
"There are hundreds of opportunities listed on our dedicated website, Spark a Change.
"Why not take a look and see if there’s an opportunity near you to volunteer your time, your way?”
The new campaign encourages Somerset residents to try various roles and gain valuable skills, create wider networks and achieve personal satisfaction.
It is an initiative that gives volunteers the chance to give back to their local community on their own terms.
Helping foster a stronger community spirit and address the pressing lack of volunteer workers.
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