This letter was prompted by the question mark hanging over the local branch of the Royal British Legion (Uncertainty over future of Royal British Legion branch, Reepham Life, 1 February 2023), which shares the problem of how to attract new volunteers with many small organisations, clubs and charities.
Yet volunteers are the vast and invisible army that contribute enormously to the quality of life in rural areas, whether it’s football coaching, history, gardening, birdwatching, food banks or community events.
The list is endless – and it includes Reepham Life – and all depend on the work, time and ideas freely given by volunteers.
This was brought into focus when I attended a session in Norwich about fundraising and found myself in a room with a least ninety people, many of them past retirement age, who were looking to find ways to support their particular charity.
A few years ago, opportunities for early retirement were greater, which meant the pool of fit and energetic volunteers was also greater than it is now that the retirement age has been raised – an unintended consequence, no doubt, but one that will have a significant impact.
Over the course of their lives people may dip in and out of volunteering, depending on their interests and circumstances.
When my sons were young, I helped run the youth club, dropped out for a few years then came back to the village hall and parish council.
The need for volunteers has not gone away and if anything, it’s growing. But it’s not a one-way street: the benefits for those who do volunteer are considerable.
Much is being written at the moment about the importance of being out in the world and having good relationships in maintaining mental and physical health in later life. It helps, too, to get a better work/life balance.
Turning out on a winter’s night for the youth club was often hard going, but when we won a rounders competition it was great.
As a volunteer you get to meet people, to share and learn new skills, and have the satisfaction of knowing you are actively helping to sustain a stronger community.
So, next time the opportunity arises, say “yes”.
Ruth Goodall, Chair of Trustees, Hall for All, Weston Longville