Newham-based Volunteer Cornwall encourages people of all ages and backgrounds to give something back to their communities

Tuesday 12th March, 2024

Helping others is good for your wellbeing – that’s the message behind a year-long campaign by Volunteer Cornwall.

The Newham-based charity is encouraging people of all ages and backgrounds to give something back to their communities while improving their own physical and mental health in the process.

The 5 Ways to Wellbeingcampaign highlights how connecting with others, being active, taking notice, learning and giving are associated with volunteering.

Through a series of month-long themes, the team at Volunteer Cornwall is hoping to drum up support for the thousands of charities across Cornwall that rely on people giving up their free time.

January’s push to flag up volunteer roles in digital and computing projects was followed by a theme devoted to driving and delivery opportunities.

This month’s focus is on dedicating time to charities that work with children and young people.

Organisers say they are delighted with the response so far, with many new volunteers signing up to work across Cornwall’s charity sector.

“It’s going really well,” said Andrew Phillips, digital support officer at Volunteer Cornwall. His role has been to promote the 5 Ways to Wellbeing campaign across the organisation’s social media channels.

“It’s about showcasing what’s out there and what people can get involved with,” he added. “Volunteering can help you enjoy new experiences and its good for your mental health and wellbeing. We see it as a means to support your community and to support yourself.”

This month will see Andrew and the team promoting the volunteer roles available in charities such as Barnardo’s and Young People Cornwall, as well as youth volunteers with Cornwall FA and cadet groups.

Case studies about people already devoting time to these charities and organisations will be used to help spread the word.

There will also be ideas, inspiration and conversations across the Volunteer Cornwall website and social media platforms. The team is also keen to hear from current volunteers and is asking for people to share their experiences and feedback about what their role means to them.

“The more we can do, the better,” says Andrew, explaining that volunteering numbers fell dramatically during and after the pandemic. “There are roughly between 5,000 and 6,000 charities all around Cornwall that people can get involved with. It can make you feel more positive and is such a rewarding thing to do.”

Upcoming themes include culture, heritage and arts, horticulture and growing, as well as animals and conservation.

Ian Jones, Chief Executive at Volunteer Cornwall said: “There have been many studies conducted which all reach the same conclusion – volunteering isn’t just good for the person receiving help and support, it also benefits the volunteer.

And, according to the last national count that was conducted, Cornwall has more volunteers per head of population than anywhere else in England and Wales – so we have a lot to shout about.”

To find out more, see volunteercornwall.org.uk