THURROCK Council is marking next week's national Volunteers' Week (Monday, 2 June to 8 June) by celebrating the invaluable contributions volunteers make to our community every single day.

There are a host of volunteers supporting the council's work, often advising and supporting residents across the borough.

Borough mayor Cllr Sue Shinnick said: "We're so grateful to these amazing people who give their time and energy to provide invaluable assistance to their fellow citizens and their community. We owe them a lot."  

Last year many voilunteers from across the borough were honoured at a celebration event, which will be repeated next week.

Deputy Mayor, Cllr Steve Liddiard, is hosting a special event at Chadwell St Mary Library on Wednesday, 4 June to personally thank many of the council's volunteers and hand out certificates of appreciation.

Cllr Liddiard said: "It is a privilege to have this opportunity to personally thank and recognise these council's volunteers who play such an important role in supporting our work in the community." 

As well as council volunteers, there are many other Thurrock residents who give their time and energy to charities and local organisations via Thurrock's Community Voluntary Services (CVS).

Thurrock volunteers were honoured at last year's event.

Mark Tebbs, CEO of Thurrock CVS, said "At Thurrock CVS, we're continually inspired by the generosity, time, and compassion our volunteers bring to their communities. On behalf of everyone at Thurrock CVS, thank you to every volunteer—you truly make Thurrock stronger.

"If you're not yet volunteering, now is the perfect time to get involved. Whether you can spare a few hours or commit more regularly, your time can make a real difference. It's also a fantastic way to build new skills, meet great people, and be part of something meaningful."

Some of Thurrock's volunters have spoken about their contributions:

Maria hosts free advice sessions for homeowners and tenants living in private housing in the borough: "I'm very happy to meet with new people, to have new opportunities and develop new skills. When you can talk to and advise people you feel helpful."

Chris meets and greets visitors to the Tilbury Library and provides advice at the Tilbury Hub: "I love volunteering. It gives me a peace of mind to know that I am doing something for my neighbours."

Sharon runs a Breakfast Club for families and residents in the three tower blocks in Chadwell St Mary: "It's nice working with the community and my own physical and mental health is better because I do this."

Interested in volunteering?

On Monday, 2 June, there will be Volunteer Recruitment Fayre at the Beehive, West Street, Grays, from 11am to 2pm. Come down and chat to a host of organisations in the borough looking for volunteers

To learn more about volunteering opportunities at Thurrock Council, visit the Volunteering vacancies page or contact [email protected]

Learn more about Thurrock Community Voluntary Services:  - Thurrock CVS

View current volunteer opportunities in Thurrock and sign up here: www.volunteeressex.org/register/

Share your volunteer stories on-line and include the hashtags #VolunteerinThurrock #VolunteersWeek #Thurrock