TENS OF MILLIONS OF PEOPLE around the world tuned in to watch the Coronation of His Majesty King Charles III on Saturday. Communities across the UK sat down to take part in Sunday’s Big Lunch with street parties lining our roads and filling our parks.
His Majesty King Charles III placed an emphasis on community and service by dedicating Bank Holiday Monday to The Big Help out. More than six million people came together on Monday to lend a hand in their community and give something back.
We’ve seen the generosity British people have to offer, with approximately 28 million people in England volunteering in one way or another in 2020/21.
Volunteering comes in lots of different forms. It could be a regular commitment in your calendar, it might be a short-term arrangement, or it could even be the odd day. What they all have in common is that you are doing something for someone else and making a difference in your community.
But volunteering isn’t just about giving your time to something; you also get something back from your commitment. You can widen your social circle and make friends from volunteer groups. Countless studies have reported on the benefits volunteering can have for your physical and mental health, which many of us could do with keeping in check.
Volunteering can be an opportunity to learn new skills and open up your mind to ways of thinking that you had never considered before.
Speaking to one local volunteer this week, they mentioned the immense connection they feel with their community. They talked about the enormous sense of value they get knowing they are making a difference to people’s lives. It was incredibly moving to hear.
Locally, we are fortunate to have Cheshire West Voluntary Action, who support hundreds of charities across the borough and can help you get involved.
The Big Help Out has been a fantastic opportunity to introduce people to the world of volunteering. It has shown there’s no right or wrong way to volunteer and it’s important to explore options to find the right type of volunteering for you.
If you want to try out volunteering but don’t know where to start, contact the team at Cheshire West Voluntary Action and they will be more than happy to help find you the perfect fit.
They can be contacted via email on enquiries@chesterva.org.uk or visit their website chesterva.org.uk