Volunteers in Bury are being recognised this week to show their hard work is very much appreciated.

Volunteers Week began on Thursday, June 1 and runs until Wednesday, June 7 and Bury VCFA (Bury Voluntary, Community and Faith Alliance) is joining with thousands of charities and voluntary organisations to honour the contributions made by people who give up their time for such causes.

This year’s theme is "Celebrate and Inspire" and echoes key messages of the borough’s new volunteer strategy which aims to ensure Bury is “a place where people are inspired, supported, and empowered to volunteer”.

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A range of activities are taking place throughout the week including announcing the Bury Roll of Appreciation and volunteering popups.

Ahead of Volunteers Week, groups have been busy nominating their volunteers for inclusion on the “Bury Roll of Appreciation”.

Throughout the week, successful volunteers will be receiving the recognition certificates as well as being featured on the Bury VCFA website and social media channels.

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Bury VCFA staff will be hosting a range of pop-up events in venues including the Mill Gate Shopping Centre.

It will be a chance for individuals to find out more about volunteering and how to get involved as well as explore some of the opportunities available via the Bury Volunteer Bank.

Chief Officer of Bury VCFA, Helen Tomlinson, said: “Whatever the reason, volunteering can have a huge impact on health and wellbeing, building strength in communities and bringing people from different backgrounds together.

“Volunteering is at the heart of our work as an organisation, and I am passionate not just about celebrating the fantastic contribution of all our local volunteers but also ensuring they continue to flourish building on the boroughs’ Volunteering Strategy.”

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Cllr Richard Gold, cabinet member for communities and finance at the council, added: “Volunteers are vital to Bury and the success of the ‘Let’s Do It’ strategy for the borough.

“They help deliver local services, build community cohesion, and drive social change.

“Our Volunteering Strategy demonstrates a borough-wide commitment to the importance and continuing future impact of volunteering for Bury.

“This Volunteers Week I am proud to add my voice to the celebration for the borough’s volunteers and the amazing work they do in our communities and for our residents.”

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