Thanks for Volunteers
Volunteers across South Tyneside were thanked for their efforts this week at a celebration event to mark National Volunteer Week.
This year's event was the first since 2019 and was bigger and better than ever in recognition of the dedication and hard work of volunteers throughout the pandemic.
The event at Hedworth Hall was organised by Inspire - the umbrella group for the voluntary and community sector across South Tyneside - and the South Tyneside Volunteer Coordinators Network - and included music, a raffle and plenty of opportunity for networking.
Fay Cunningham, Chair of the group said: "We wanted to hold this event to recognise the enormous impact volunteering has on our communities.
"Our thanks go to each and every one of our volunteers who take the time to help others. Their passion and energy is second to none and they really do go the extra mile to make South Tyneside the best place it can possibly be."
Inspire directs volunteers to hundreds of voluntary sector organisations, with volunteering opportunities as diverse as litter picking, befriending and digital support.
Councillor Paul Dean, Lead Member for the Voluntary Sector, Partnerships and Equalities, said: "Volunteering is a great way of helping others but it's important to remember that it pays dividends for the volunteers too. Many talk about the positive impact it has had on their lives in terms of making new friendships, boosting wellbeing and confidence and learning new skills. For all these reasons, I'd encourage anyone who has a little bit of time to spare to connect with Inspire and help make South Tyneside an even better place in which to live."
To find out more about volunteering opportunities in South Tyneside visit