Chris Platts

As we come the end of volunteers’ week it’s important to reflect on all those who donate their time in supporting others. Charities and organisations like Buddy Check rely so much of the generosity of volunteers that it is sometimes taken for granted as to how vital they are in making sure they work. From the numerous food banks that seem to be popping up on a weekly basis, to the veteran selling poppies, people of all ages are giving their time to support others. It’s something I believe we should all be doing, in one way or another. I know it might seem easy to say that. Especially if you’re one of the many that are doing long hours and shifts, with no break or time off in sight. Giving your precious spare time up to help others may seem counterproductive if you’re in need of some respite and care. However not all volunteer work has to be ‘work’. There are over 160,000 registered charities and organisations out there needing help. From the large national ones such as SSAFA and Royal British Legion, to the smaller charities like The K9 Project and Reset, they all rely on the help of volunteers to further their cause. All with differing ways of providing support. Some are general jobs such as fundraising, others are looking for specialist workers, but all equally as important. Over the last few years there has been a sharp decline in people volunteering. Even before COVID numbers had dropped from 45% down to 36% of the population (volunteered at least once per year). When you look at it like that then there is obviously going to be a massive effect on the support provided by those organisations that rely heavily on volunteer work. But you could change that. As I’ve already said there are plenty of different organisations out there that are looking for help with their cause. It’s finding the one that works for you. The one where you can spend time volunteering and at the end of the day feel a sense of pride, rather than feel like it’s another job. It could be at a food bank, helping taxi people to medical appointments, teaching football to the local kids. It could be literally anything that you want. By volunteering your time in supporting others you might find that you’re also providing support to yourself.

I would also like to take this opportunity to thank one of our volunteers. Jade Baker has been pivotal in providing support to to our social media and marketing campaigns throughout the past year. She has given us guidance on what we need to be doing for the future and given us an identity. As she moves on to her next big challenge I just want to say a massive thank you from everyone at Buddy Check for everything you have done for us.