RESIDENTS interested in volunteering to help victims of crime, or helping ex-offenders turn their lives around, will have the opportunity to get involved at an event held next week.
Organisations which support volunteers in the criminal justice system are hosting a Volunteers’ Fair, at County Hall, Durham on Monday 1st February, between 6pm-8pm.
Ron Hogg, Durham’s Police and Crime Commissioner said: “Volunteers in the criminal justice system can make a real difference as well as learn a wide range of new skills.
“There are a number of different ways in which people across County Durham and Darlington can volunteer. They can bring a real human touch, help reduce crime and ensure their community is represented. I encourage residents who are interested to come along to the event and find out more.”
Residents might prefer to volunteer to support victims, young people, those on probation, or a wide range of other people within the criminal justice system.
They can also benefit from high-quality training and have the chance to meet like-minded people and make new friendships. Some people have found that volunteering can be a gateway to whole new career.
Durham’s Chief Constable, Mike Barton, said: “Volunteers are an invaluable part of the criminal justice process. Many of them have told me that they benefit because they gain new skills and experiences”.
People attending the event will be able to hear about the benefits to victims, ex-offenders and the wider society of the work of volunteers in the criminal justice sector. There will also be opportunities to talk to current volunteers about what they do, and why they feel good about doing it. There will be stalls where you can find information, and if you are a member of a community group, how funding might be available.
If you would like to attend, please email: enquiries@durham-pcc.gov.uk or visit www.durham-pcc.gov.uk. For enquiries, please contact Derek Robson on: 07786 275996.
