Sunderland charity volunteer champions community action to mark Volunteers’ Week
A charity shop in Sunderland is marking Volunteers’ Week by celebrating the contribution of its volunteers and encouraging more people to join its community.
National Volunteers’ Week is a UK-wide campaign held from the first Monday in June to celebrate and recognise volunteers across the country.
Launching in 1984, the initiative has been running for more than 40 years, giving organisations and communities a platform to thank current and past volunteers for their invaluable efforts.
Susan Freeman, head of volunteering at St Oswald’s Hospice, said: “Across the hospice, volunteers support a huge range of areas, from charity shops and fundraising events to gardening, reception support and patient-facing care roles.
“They make a real difference to patients, families, visitors and staff every single day, and Volunteers’ Week is a special opportunity for us to celebrate and thank them for everything they do.
“We’d love more people to join our volunteer community. Whether you can give a few hours, share a skill, or simply want to do something meaningful locally, volunteering at St Oswald’s is a wonderful way to make a difference.”
Neko Sarantangom, 44, has been volunteering at St Oswald’s Hospice’s Sunderland shop, in High Street West, for 18 months after joining to help improve his mental health.
He said: "I look after all the media including World of Books where I scan books to an online shop, so I know I am helping raise money for the hospice, which feels amazing.
"I feel calm, the shop has friendly staff and the great atmosphere helps.
"I love the feeling of knowing how much my time helps the hospice."