The vital role of volunteers was recognised by Forward Leeds, at a celebratory meal to thank them for their ‘fantastic commitment’ throughout the year.
The charity’s volunteers put in a total of 905 hours of work between them in November alone – almost a working week per month for each volunteer. The volunteer programme attracts around ten applications a month to support adults and young people to make healthy choices about alcohol and drugs and reduce risk-taking behaviour.
Work takes place at three centres across Leeds, plus a young persons’ hub and a recovery academy. The academy provides education, training and employment support, as well as activities including a gardening group, yoga sessions and music production workshops.
The get-together was ‘a great opportunity for volunteers to meet each other as they are usually all busy, coming in at different days and times,’ said Ann Hall, volunteer development manager, adding ‘We are always keen to support volunteers in achieving their end goal, whether that is to gain skills and experience or to be ready for paid employment.’
If you are interested in volunteering for Forward Leeds you can fill in a form on their website, www.forwardleeds.co.uk, give them a call on 0113 887 2477 or email volunteering@disc-vol.org.uk
