Letter: We Must Resist The Culture of Volunteer Paperwork

Published on: 26 Aug, 2016
Updated on: 26 Aug, 2016

From Jim Allen

The Effingham Eye, No Volunteers – No Fireworks, points to a problem that exists countywide and probably further – a distinct lack of volunteers.

There is probably a variety of reasons for this; many are simply too busy working long hours to earn their, and their families living, especially in this expensive area of the UK.

But could it also be because the Health and Safety culture we live in, where the paperwork required of the volunteer is often worse than old fashioned office bureaucracy.

I think that to get more volunteers we need to stop the culture of volunteer paperwork and make sure they are welcomed, regardless of background.

We should also improve the cohesiveness of our communities by simply saying “hello” to everyone we see. This simple thing could help make everyone to have a better sense of community.

I write from experience. I was once just one of many organisers of the Sandhurst Carnival and Sandhurst fireworks display.

Local events can be fun and rewarding. So I would urge all to put their concerns to one side and get out and volunteer.

Responses to Letter: We Must Resist The Culture of Volunteer Paperwork

Adrian Atkinson Reply

August 26, 2016 at 11:56 am

Living close to Effingham and a reader of local social media, I was not aware that volunteers were needed.
Brian Holt Reply

August 27, 2016 at 10:28 pm

I help with the yearly “Carols on the Green” in Guildford. Although it is a Christmas community event, the council now want to make a charge for using a small piece of a grassed area for four hours. Additionally, they require us to have insurance cover for the event and numerous stewards.

Local councils should be encouraging the local communities to hold events rather than putting all these obstacles in the way of the volunteers who give up many hours of their own time organising community activities.