Volunteers receive recognition for hard work

A group of Dewsbury and Mirfield volunteers were thanked for their time and dedication to local community groups at an event at Mirfield Day Centre.

Most of the volunteers are supported by Mirfield Day Centre, which, jointly run by South West Yorkshire Mental Health Trust and Kirklees Adult Services, helps people with mental health problems develop skills, strengths and confidence on their road to recovery. There was also recognition for people who volunteer at the centre.

Resource development officer Anne Sharp says, "We decided to celebrate the contribution that volunteers make both here at Mirfield Day Centre and at charitable and voluntary organisations in the community during national volunteer’s week. The time, commitment and enthusiasm that volunteers give to their organisations is really valuable. People also get a lot out of volunteering – it can help people’s self esteem and confidence grow. We wanted to thank the volunteers and celebrate their achievements."

Between them the volunteers from Mirfield Day centre work at Oxfam, Oakwell Hall, the community garden group (whose projects have included Crows Nest Park), Dewsbury Minster, Kirkwood hospice, Branches – an organisation that helps people with learning disabilities and Priestley Unit, Dewsbury and District hospital.

Volunteer Steve O’Donnell says, "I’ve volunteered at Ship – a drop in group for inpatients at the Priestley unit (the Trust’s mental health unit in Dewsbury) for the past year. I think I’ve always had a talent for talking and listening to people and volunteering has given me a chance to use those skills to help other people. I like volunteering because you get to meet lots of different people and go to different places – lots of social interaction. Volunteering has really benefited me and helped me develop confidence. It’s also helped me in my own recovery from mental health problems."

All the volunteers received certificates and a special lunch at the event.