The Coronation of HM King Charles III gave volunteering the Royal seal of approval with the Big Help Out attracting thousands of people to give up their time to support others.
Now Somerset Council wants to build on that support by encouraging more people to come forward and lend a hand – and there is a wide range of opportunities on offer.
“Volunteering is great for improving your physical or mental health, supporting your local community, learning new skills and supporting others,”
said Cllr Federica Smith-Roberts, Lead Member for Communities, Housing and Culture.
“Somerset Council has a wide selection of volunteer vacancies that could be just what you are looking for. We have opportunities across the county and would love to have you as part of our team!”
Some of those opportunities include:
Volunteer Driver – This role involves supporting adults and young people get to and from things like non-emergency medical appointments and school. This is ideal for anybody over 18 with a full UK driving licence and four-door car; particularly those who enjoy driving and meeting new people. Patients and passengers appreciate the opportunity to chat to their drivers too, since some live in remote or isolated situations.
Route1 Advocacy – Adults are needed across the county to give a helping hand to children and young people who may need a bit of extra support by becoming advocates or independent visitors. Advocates offer short-term one-to-one support to assist a child or young person have a voice at meetings concerning their wellbeing or care. Independent visitors befriend and spend time with a child or young person who is in the care of the Local Authority.
Libraries – There are loads of opportunities with local libraries across the county including, the Home Library Service which enables those who are not able to travel to their local library to still use its services. These roles include supporting events in libraries, supporting people to improve their digital skills and helping with this year’s Summer Reading Challenge.
Rights of Way – Opportunities include helping keep your favourite local walk clear from vegetation as an Adopt-a-Path Volunteer to commenting on consultations and draft policy documents as part of the Somerset Local Access forum and others in between.
There are even more opportunities available on the Council’s dedicated volunteering website where people can find the currently available and regularly updated opportunities. Keep checking back.
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