Did you know, in the UK, around 16% of the population volunteer at least once a month – that amounts to around 8.3 million people! They are an invaluable support to many organisations, charities and not for profits, who rely on their skills and contributions to keep their day-to-day ticking over.
Despite volunteering being, well, exactly that – voluntary, there is no shortage of benefits to those who choose to give up their free time to carry it out. The ‘feel good factor’ of helping others out, along with the connection with like-minded individuals, has a positive impact upon mental health. Attending voluntary programmes often carries with it the bonus of a) learning new skills, or sharing those which you already possess, and b) about as much tea and coffee as you can stomach – at least this is true of Fordhall’s volunteers!
Volunteering, all in all, can be a very rewarding experience – but it can be hard to figure out where to start with it. Fortunately, June (usually) brings summer weather and (always) the annual celebration of UK volunteers – Volunteer’s Week. In fact, this year marks 40 years since its establishment! This could be the perfect opportunity to take the step into the volunteering world.
Fordhall’s foundations are in volunteering – from the campaign to save the farm to development in 2006, to the present day, many wonderful individuals have given up their time, and shared valuable skills, to support life on the farm. Recently, tree planting saw over 63 volunteers getting involved in the project. Involvement also ranges from maintenance, to wildlife conservation, to office support, café roles and event setup and support – even weddings!
Ready to dip your toe in? We are excited to announce that you will soon have the opportunity to meet the volunteer team, to find out what it’s all about! Pop by the Greenwood Shelter on Friday 7th June, between 12:30pm-3:30pm, for a cuppa, a sausage by the campfire, and a grill session with the team about all things volunteering. Maybe they’ll just convince you to dive into our next volunteer weekend (22nd-23rd June)!
While you’re waiting, why not find out more about Fordhall’s volunteer programme at: www.fordhallfarm.com/volunteer or contact volunteering lead, Mike, on mike.grabarz@fordhallfarm.com
Whether you are volunteering or visiting, we’re looking forward to welcoming you to the farm for the summer months!
Francesca Lant, Marketing and Communication Officer