To mark Volunteers Week, (1 – 7 June), the Council is highlighting volunteers and voluntary groups across the borough.
The week began with Councillor Ajmer Grewal, Cabinet Member for Communities, Culture and Safety at Hounslow Council visiting Inclusive Joyful Activities, which supports adults with additional needs. The group was created to provide inclusive, accessible, and meaningful opportunities for individuals who are often overlooked within the community.
Run entirely by volunteers, the group recently received £10,000 from the Council’s Thriving Communities Fund, which provides thousands of pounds each year to local charities and community groups.
Speaking at the session they run on a Monday morning, Councillor Ajmer Grewal, said:
“I was extremely impressed by the dedication and passion of the volunteers and carers who go that extra mile to support adults at this session.
“With more than 850 voluntary groups and charities in Hounslow, volunteers are often the beating heart of communities across the borough. They are the unsung heroes and they should be commended and celebrated.”
Balwinder Sandhu, who runs the voluntary group, founded the group after her own experiences as a parent of a daughter with severe learning disabilities, she said:
"From my own personal experience with my daughter, I realised that there wasn't any provision for adults with high needs in the local area.
"What is great about these sessions is they are inclusive for everyone - adults can come with their carers and relatives. We have now began to link with care homes and Great Oaks College to offer support to them.
“Our classes just keep growing and expanding as it really benefits adults with disabilities in the local area "
The Hounslow Volunteer Centre is also hosting a range of activities for Volunteers’ Week including open days at Boston Manor House and the London Museum of Water and Steam and a Volunteer Celebration Event on Friday 5 June.
Hounslow Council commission the service to support residents into volunteering and help local groups find the volunteers that helps keep their services running successfully.
To volunteer in Hounslow, or to find out more about these events, visit their website or email at info@ehcvs.org.uk
To find out more about Inclusive Joyful Activities, click here.
