Banbury area volunteers are celebrated as others are encouraged to get involved in helping their local organisations

Cherwell District Council has been working with Volunteer Connect since 2012, creating a bespoke service to help matchmake community groups with people willing to give their time and energy for free.

During the coronavirus pandemic, this partnership has enabled the quick creation of organisations offering vital support, including the delivery of emergency provision to those isolating and more recently the COVID vaccine rollout.

Councillor Andrew McHugh, Cherwell District Council’s Lead Member for Health and Wellbeing said: “Volunteers are a crucial part of a happy, healthy town. They offer a unique understanding of the local area as well as a personal touch to those needing support. During the coronavirus pandemic, volunteers have stepped up, going above and beyond to help those in real need and this week is the ideal time to offer our thanks.”

During June, network support group Oxfordshire Community and Voluntary Action (OCVA) are showcasing a range of volunteering opportunities throughout the county. Co-funded by Cherwell District Council and Oxfordshire County Council, the organisation will also provide a number of online workshops with topics on funding; support; managing and being a trustee.

Volunteer Connect will also be promoting their Cherwell virtual volunteer fair this month, highlighting specific roles needed to be filled in the district. Keith Davies runs the online event and said: “It’s not just organisations who benefit from volunteering. Giving up time to support others is a great way to try new things, gain new skills, make new friends and help your local community.”

For more information on volunteering vacancies and workshops with the OCVA go to https://ocva.org.uk/.

For opportunities available in Cherwell, follow @volunteerconnect.org.uk on Facebook or for positions in Banbury go to https://sites.google.com/cano.org.uk/cherwellvolunteerfair/banbury