Barry Coppock from The Stroke Association tests Ghandi Sooriyakumar's blood pressure at Redbridge's volunteers day

Volunteering opportunities showcased at Mayor of Redbridge’s inaugural event

by Amanda Nunn Tuesday, September 4, 2012
12:25 PM

Anyone wanting to volunteer was spoilt for choice at a fair showcasing the different charities which need help around the borough.

The volunteer day, instigated by the Mayor of Redbridge Cllr Muhammed Javed, saw about 50 charities explaining their work and trying to recruit new volunteers.

The day was inspired by the theme for Cllr Javed’s mayoral year of giving time for others.

“Each one told me they wanted to raise awareness of what they do and to attract volunteers which they were short of,” Cllr Javed said. “It was very successful, the organisations were happy and didn’t have to pay a penny.”

Many of the charities had contacted the mayor for support in raising the profile of their organisation so he said he thought it was fairer to give them all an opportunity.

He added: “It’s the first time we have had a volunteer day of this kind. I spoke to each and every one of them. They interacted with other organisations and got support from them.”

The event, which was held on Thursday in Redbridge Town Hall, High Road, Ilford, gave charities a chance to interact with the public.

One of the charities which attended the fair was the Chigwell Riding Trust for Special Needs, High Road, Chigwell which helps disabled people learn to ride horses.

Deborah Hall, manager of the trust, said: “We have more than 100 volunteers on our books but it’s not enough. For a ride with six people we need 18 volunteers.”

The charity sent six of their current volunteers to the fair to spread awareness of their work and to try and drum up some more volunteers.

She said: “It’s a very special place. It benefits their whole well being, improved balance, coordination, self esteem and can even teach children to walk and talk.”