Speaking during Volunteers’ Week 2013, Jessica Lee MP said:

 “Here in Erewash, volunteering is at the very heart of our community. I often get to see at firsthand, the hard work and determination of volunteers who are striving to make our local area a better place to live and work.

For example, recently, I met with volunteers from the Canal and River Trust’s East Midlands Partnership and I am working with them to encourage more volunteers to help preserve out waterways, through the “Erewash Rangers” scheme. This is just one example of many organisations making a difference in our local communities. From volunteers in schools, our local hospital, for our open spaces to helping the elderly; the list goes on and on.”

Justin Davis Smith, director of volunteering at NCVO added:

“Volunteers’ Week is a fabulous opportunity for us to recognise and celebrate volunteers and the incredible contribution they make to our communities.  Volunteers are an integral part of our society, and without their dedication, energy and commitment, many of the services we take for granted would simply grind to a halt.

‘But the magic of volunteering is that it is a two-way relationship. So alongside the contribution to our local communities, volunteers also benefit tremendously from the experience – learning new skills, getting back into paid work, improving physical or mental well-being, or simply meeting interesting people and having fun.

‘Please join us in saying thank you to the volunteers who make our society a better place, and in highlighting the many different ways that people can get involved.”