Kate writes a bi-weekly column for the Uttoxeter Echo. This column was originally featured in the 29th September print edition.
The past 18 months have been incredibly difficult for our country with the Coronavirus pandemic, and there is little that many of us would want to remember from it. However, what we can look back on with pride is how our local communities came together and worked for the benefit of all to support one another.
In fact, 1 in 4 people regularly volunteer, but during the pandemic volunteering numbers surged as people took on various roles and tasks to support those in their community who needed a little extra help.
Tomorrow (Thursday 30th September), volunteers from the Marchington Community Shop will be presented with their Queen’s Voluntary Service Award (QVSA) by the Lord Lieutenant of Staffordshire, Ian Dudson CBE.
The QVSA is the highest award given to volunteer groups across the UK, and is referred to as the ‘MBE for volunteer groups, recognising the vital work local organisations do to support their community’.
I was delighted—when it was announced back in June—that the nomination for a QVSA had been successful, and that the incredible efforts of the Marchington Community Shop volunteers would be recognised.
The shop, run by the community for the community, has been in operation now for over a decade, and in that time has relied on the dedication and commitment of volunteers to keep its doors open to residents.
I want to congratulate once again the Chair of the Marchington Community Shop Board, Liz Morgan, and Shop Manager, Tracey Young, along with the whole store team, on achieving this award, and I know that tomorrow’s presentation will be a very special occasion for them all.
Volunteers are vital in making Staffordshire the great place it is, and many thousands of people already make a difference through a volunteering role.
If you are inspired by this local success story, why not find out what volunteering options you might be interested in by visiting supportstaffordshire.org.uk/volunteering, or calling 0300 777 1207.
