December is here at last and the sun is setting on the year of 2023. I would usually try to make these newsletters catchy, funny and/or jazzy, but for the end of the year we here at Support Staffordshire would like to say a huge thank you to everyone who has done any sort of Volunteering over the past year. Whether it was helping a neighbour by taking out their bins, helping in your local Charity Shop, distributing food from a Food Bank or whatever else you may have done, thank you so very much for all the support and help you have provided to your local community. And if there is anyone reading this who is considering Volunteering, either during the December Holidays or possibly in the New Year, please consider these roles below.
Trustee, Phoenix Counselling Service
As a Trustee, your role is crucial in ensuring the charity fulfils its aims and objectives and operates effectively. To support the charities mission and contribute your expertise and act in the best interests of Phoenix Counselling Service.
Cathedral Christmas Light Show – Event Volunteer, Lichfield Cathedral
We are looking for volunteers to help welcome visitors to this special event and ensure that they have the best experience possible. The show will be held between Saturday 16 and Friday 22 December (but not Thursday 21 Dec) and volunteers will be needed between 5.00pm and 9.00pm (shifts are between 2 and 2.5hrs) – you can volunteer for as many or as few evenings as you like.
Volunteer Drivers, The Voluntary Car Scheme – Lichfield and Cannock Chase areas
Volunteer drivers are required to use their own cars to take people to health related appointments. A mileage rate for fuel is paid to the driver at 45p per mile. The role is very flexible and the number of journeys undertaken is variable depending on the drivers availability. Drivers will be required to undertake a DBS check
Befriender for the Elderly, MHA Communities South Staffordshire
Volunteers are needed to befriend and support older people living in their own homes in the community. Individuals are needed who are able to provide a non-judgemental service to people who may be experiencing isolation and a lack of opportunities for social interaction. Older residents of your local community might have no family are are unable to leave the house often. Friendly faces are needed to offer support, just a chat and something to look forward to.
Volunteer Buddy – Lichfield District, Support Staffordshire
The Volunteer Buddy role is a real opportunity to make a difference. This could be through helping to support older people experiencing social isolation, individuals living with a learning disability, or individuals living with mental health needs.
Now whatever you observe over this final month of the year, be it a day of remembrance, thanks, joy or a mix of all three, be it a time for family and friends or simply a a relaxing break and time to refresh for the year to come, we at Support Staffordshire wish you a time of peace and love. Happy Christmas, Hanukkah, Bodhi Day, Kwanzaa, Zartosht No-Diso, Yule and anything and everything else.
Mitchell Dodd, Volunteering Officer, Support Staffordshire.
