Thanking the volunteers of Ashford Borough

1-7 June is Volunteers’ Week and Ashford Borough Council and Ashford Volunteer Centre (AVC) would like to say a big thank you to those in the borough who have supported the community in their time of need.

For this week both the council and AVC have created and shared a video message dedicated to these wonderful volunteers for the work they have been doing. Look out for this and other messages on our social media channels.

Volunteering during the Covid19 pandemic – in numbers:

So far 441 new volunteers have come through AVC to offer their support

Over 2000 people across the borough of Ashford are volunteering to help people

Over 120 community groups are working with volunteers across the borough of Ashford

Quotes about the volunteers:

“The help I was given really helped, thank you”

“I couldn’t thank the gentleman who helped me enough – he was so kind”

“Thank you doesn’t seem enough, the volunteer that helped me when I couldn’t go out was a lifeline to me”

“Having a chat with someone on the phone is something I look forward to in my day”

“I went to volunteer to help someone and I came away with a friend”

The Mayor of Ashford, Cllr Jenny Webb, who is most passionate about our volunteers and calls them ‘our silent army’ said:

“My focus as Mayor was to highlight the volunteer sector and all of its volunteers who give generously of their time, compassion and love. They are a lifeline to so many.

“During this current COVID-19 pandemic the Ashford borough has been a leading force which has only been made possible by the volunteers, Ashford Volunteer Centre, and the many staff and officers who have worked together to ensure that communities across the borough have been contacted and any help required has been forthcoming.

“We are proud of our volunteers and their unselfish contribution during this time of worry and sadness. They have been a true ray of light bringing help, laughter, relief and comfort to so many.

“We are indeed a fortunate borough to have so many generous and giving organisations and volunteers. I am personally proud and grateful to them all.

“Thank you.”

Beth Peal, CEO of Ashford Volunteer Centre, said:

“Our borough already had a strong network of volunteers before this crisis hit, but we’ve been humbled by the way the voluntary sector has come together to support those most in need.

“This really has brought out the very best in people and it’s heart-warming to know that across the borough we have amazing helpers willing to do their bit.

“I’ve spoken to a number of first-time volunteers who have come forward recently to help, and they have been taken back by the genuine gratitude shown by those receiving support.

“We’re always looking for more volunteers, so if you can spare some time, even if it’s only a few hours a week, please contact Ashford Volunteers Centre on [email protected] or call 01233 665535.”

Ashford Volunteer Centre – https://ashfordvc.org.uk/

Ashford Borough Council – https://www.ashford.gov.uk/your-community/emergency-planning/health-and-pandemics/coronavirus-covid-19/coronavirus-help-for-community-groups/