No way a Forgotten Army of Teamakers, today’s volunteers are the heroes at the front line.

They save lives at sea, counsel troubled people, rescue animals, campaign for heritage and conservation, contribute to science. More than 27 million of them. So this year’s Volunteers Week is a national thankyou, trumpeting their unique commitment and enterprise. Volunteers are getting a good press.
The south west is blessed with the highest level of volunteering of any English region.

Nationally, a Commission headed by high-profile TV guru Baroness Julia Neuberger will report soon on the mighty value of volunteers and - it is expected - how they could do with more support.

In this year’s Volunteers Week, June 1-7, the new South Hams Volunteer Centre will pitch a stall in the reception of the district council offices at Follaton House, Totnes. There’ll be examples of activities the centre has uncovered and matched up with volunteers, and current calls for help. Among those are several for trustees – people who contribute their knowledge and life experience to running a group.

The public will be welcome to pop in to the reception at Follaton House between 9.30 am and 3 pm, June 4 to 6, to find out more. Or call the centre on 01803 862 266.
Many opportunities come with free preparation, great to build experience. There’s help at hand to choose between gardener, young activist, listening ear in a prison, arts centre box office, help in hospital, IT tutor and many more… including the all-important Maker of Tea.

For more information: Howard Owens, co-ordinator South Hams Volunteer Centre Desk: 01803 862 266 [email protected]

Launched in June 2006, the volunteer centre is part of the South Hams Council for Voluntary Service, a local independent charity established for 12 years which helps groups to flourish. The volunteer centre, one of eight across Devon, sets up introductions between groups and volunteers.