A HEARTFELT “thank you” has been given to a band of volunteers who help disabled people across the county.
The Heart of England branch of Mencap has praised the work of volunteers across Warwickshire who continue to support people with learning disabilities.
The charity, based in Stratford, hosted a special event at The Bell at Alderminster, which saw staff get together with the charity’s volunteer force for an afternoon of coffee, cakes and thanks.
Chief Executive Helena Wallis said: “National Volunteers’ Week was the perfect opportunity for us to show our volunteers just how grateful we are for all that they do, enabling our charity to support the learning disability community, helping individuals to live the life they choose.”
Chris Aynsley has been volunteering for HofE Mencap since January, having retired as a teacher at Stratford College.
She now lends a hand at HofE Mencap’s day activity groups, getting involved with everything from maths to art to drama.
She said: “It is rewarding and the people are fantastic. Every day offers something different – lending support wherever it is needed. We share a lot of fun.”
Volunteers at Mencap can find themselves supporting people with a hobby such as fishing, cooking or gardening or even taking trips to a football match or the cinema.
They can also get behind the wheel as a volunteer driver and are needed to help with fund-raising – from selling raffle tickets to helping organise events.
Mrs Wallis added: “There is no minimum number of hours, we are grateful for every minute that helps make a difference to someone with a learning disability.
“All of our volunteers have training and support. Some apply because they are thinking of a career in care and want to gain some valuable experience, others are looking for something worthwhile to fill their spare time. What they all have in common is the positive difference they really do make to people’s lives.”
To find out more about becoming a volunteer call 01789 298709.
