As Lib Dem councillors, we are active hard working local champions. Local activism is what we pride ourselves on as a party, however we cannot achieve meaningful progress on our own. Community volunteer groups often operate on the front lines of our communities, providing essential services, support, and advocacy that directly impact residents’ lives. When we work together with these groups, the result is a more responsive, inclusive, and resilient community. Some of the members of these groups might even become the activists and Councillors of the future.
Volunteer groups are typically deeply embedded in their communities and understand the specific challenges and aspirations of the people they serve. By partnering with these groups, we can gain first-hand insights into pressing issues—whether it’s homelessness, food insecurity, youth programs, or environmental concerns, this knowledge allows for more informed decision-making and the creation of better policies.
Working with volunteer groups also enables more efficient use of resources. Volunteers often operate with limited funding, relying on donations and grants. Councillors who support these groups—through funding, access to public spaces, or help cutting through some red tape, can work together to achieve things for our community without the need for huge budgets. This is especially important during the current financial environment that lots of councils find themselves in.
Working closely with community groups also builds public trust. When councillors are seen collaborating with grassroots organizations, it signals that they value civic engagement and are open to community views. This can strengthen our local council and might encourage people to put themselves forward to stand in the future. It can also help reduce scepticism about politicians, showing that public service is not just about campaigning but about working alongside the community to solve problems.
Volunteer groups often engage in ongoing projects that strengthen social ties and improve quality of life in our local areas. When we support and collaborate with these efforts, they help create a sense of shared responsibility and pride and over time, this builds a stronger, more cohesive community where people are more likely to help one another and contribute positively to the place they live.
So this volunteer week, why not go out into your community and try to understand who is doing what. There are hundreds of people doing all kinds of incredible volunteer roles in our communities and the more we make the effort to encourage and learn from them the better.