Volunteers’ Week is the perfect opportunity to recognise volunteers who put their time, energy and enthusiasm into helping others, whether it’s clearing out a park, or helping with a reading club or food bank, volunteers are the social glue keeping our communities together.

Volunteering is a way to give something back to the community, but also benefit from new experiences, make friends, gain skills and most importantly, have fun.

It’s important that local organisations and groups who use volunteers recognise the valuable contribution they are making and ensure they say a big thank you to them.

Jacqui Payne – Community Development Manager at ngage at Thurrock CVS said “During the coronavirus pandemic, we have seen the power, determination and might of volunteers and the community across the borough.

“The number of registered volunteers has swelled when the need was greatest, particularly with the Thurrock Coronavirus Action Group - with the biggest volunteer complaint of the service being “use me more!”.

“Volunteers Week is not only a chance to say thank you to our fantastic volunteers, but an opportunity to promote the benefits of volunteering for an individual’s wellbeing or pathway back to work.”

Cllr Deb Huelin, Portfolio Holder for Communities said: “The appetite to help our friends and neighbours have been demonstrated during some of the toughest of times, to be strong, resilient and united. I have no doubt, this has helped to save lives during the COVID-19 pandemic.

“As well as all the wonderful volunteers across the community who have supported Thurrock Coronavirus Community Action, I would like to thank those organisations such as Thurrock Scouts, Princes Trust, Inspire Youth Hub, Big Local Riverside, Thurrock Lifestyle solutions, the Community Forums and Community Hubs for releasing their volunteers and staff who have risen to the challenge to support residents in Thurrock.”