A thriving volunteering programme being run in and around Daventry has been celebrated at a special event.
More than 4,000 hours of voluntary work have been put in through the programme run by Daventry and District Housing (DDH) and Seven Locks Housing – and nine people have gained employment as a direct result of volunteering.
Some 76 digital champion sessions have been delivered to help residents improve their computer skills, 22 volunteers completed training in food safety and first aid, and 520 lunch clubs supported for sheltered scheme residents.
To mark these successes during National Volunteers’ Week, a special event featuring an interactive workshop, a performance by the Lutterworth Carers Choir and a speech from a successful individual about his journey from volunteering into employment, took place at Lutterworth Golf Club last Tuesday.
Jo Miller, volunteer co-ordinator for DDH and Seven Locks, said: “National Volunteers’ Week provides the perfect opportunity to celebrate the fantastic achievements and the amazing dedication of our volunteers.
“Volunteering enriches career prospects, creates better environments within our communities, supports the local economy and helps improve the health and wellbeing of many of our tenants.”
Jamie Over, a former DDH volunteer who has found full-time employment but continues to volunteer as a Police Special Constable, said: “My confidence has increased so much after all the volunteering I’ve carried out.
“I’ve learned so much and developed many new skills that helped me start a new career.”
To get involved in the programme, email getinvolved@ddh.org.uk