Celebration event for volunteers across Newark and Sherwood

More than 120 volunteers attended a celebration event at Newark Castle as a special thank you in recognition of the work they do across the district.

National Volunteers’ Week takes place every year from June 1-7 and provides a timely opportunity for the vice chairman of Newark and Sherwood District Council, Councillor Penny Rainbow, to express gratitude on behalf of the community for the fantastic contribution volunteers make across the district.

The event, on Sunday, June 2 was organised by Newark and Sherwood Community Network, a partnership between the district council, Newark and Sherwood CVS and voluntary sector organisations. Those invited were offered a free boat trip along the River Trent, live music and treated to some light refreshments.

Council vice chairman, Penny Rainbow, said: “Volunteers Week reminds us of the fantastic contribution that volunteers make to our community so selflessly. Their willingness to invest time and energy to help other is greatly appreciated and should be recognised and the event is our small way of saying thank you on behalf of all those that benefit from their efforts.”

A special ‘Volunteer of the Year’ award was also presented at the event in memory of Newark Castle warden, Floss Newman.

Anthony Leivers, an active volunteer and Friend of Newark Castle was given the award in recognition of his dedication, hard work and support.

Those who attended included volunteers from the district council’s Severe Weather Emergency Shelter, Newark Food Bank, Beaumond House, Reach Learning Disability, Age UK, Home Start, Citizens Advice, Newark Live at Home, Friends of Sconce and Devon Park, Collingham’s Men in Sheds, Edwinstowe United and Rainworth Village Hall.

In addition, to also coincide with National Volunteers’ Week, Newark and Sherwood Community Network organised a volunteer recruitment fair on Saturday, June 1 in Newark’s Buttermarket.

The day gave visitors looking to gain new skills and give something back to the community the opportunity to meet volunteer-led organisations and groups to learn more about the work done and the opportunities available to give support.

Undertaking voluntary work gives people the opportunity to make a difference to the lives of others and give something back to an organisation that has impacted on a person’s life, as well as being a route to employment, a chance to gain new knowledge, meet new people and get involved in the local community.

Newark Community First Aid, Beaumond House Community Hospice, the Volunteer Transport Scheme and Newark Emmaus Trust were just some of the groups exhibiting on the day.

Helen Stanbridge, senior manager at Newark and Sherwood Community & Voluntary Service, said: “Volunteering makes an enormous difference and has a positive impact in our local community, with many volunteers bringing a wealth of diversity and life experiences. The fair is an ideal opportunity to find out about how you can get involved and help make a difference.”