Wera Hobhouse, Liberal Democrat MP for Bath, has voiced concern over the declining trend in volunteering following the Covid-19 pandemic and praised Bath-based organisation 3SG as an ‘exemplary model for strengthening volunteerism’.

In anticipation of the 40th annual Volunteers’ Week, Mrs Hobhouse attended a Westminster Hall debate to publicly acknowledge the essential contribution volunteers make nationwide and address the concerning decline in volunteer numbers since the Covid-19 pandemic.

Mrs Hobhouse referenced data from the Charities Aid Foundation’s UK Giving report, revealing a notable drop in volunteering rates - from 17% pre-pandemic to 13% in 2023, equating to about 1.6 million fewer people volunteering over the past five years. Mrs Hobhouse acknowledged the effect that years of cuts to funding under the Conservative government amid a cost of living crisis has had on volunteering and the Third Sector.

Taking the opportunity to praise 3SG, Bath & North East Somerset Third Sector Group, Mrs Hobhouse stressed the importance of organisations that address barriers to volunteering. A membership network of over 200 charities, social enterprises and community groups in B&NES, 3SG offers 1:1 support, events to benefit the sector, dedicated resources, and forums and advocacy work. Despite a national decline in volunteering, during the pandemic 3SG coordinated a community volunteer response of over 2,000 local residents.

Becky Brooks, director of 3SG, Bath & North East Somerset Third Sector Group, commented:  “Communities are stronger for volunteering, and it is vital that we build upon this goodwill and a culture of helping and being kind to one another as a society.

“Volunteers can come from all walks of life and it is important that we make volunteering accessible for all, and identify barriers to volunteering in any given area. It is also important to recognise that volunteers are on their own personal journey and may come to give their time for various reasons. It provides connection and a support network that people may not receive elsewhere.

“Unfortunately, charities are facing huge cuts and financial pressures at a time when we are seeing a rise in need, and often these organisations are supporting people that are falling through the gaps. There is huge potential for better link ups to support preventative work though initiatives such as social prescribing, for example, of which volunteering can also play a part.”

3SG will be holding various sessions throughout Volunteers' Week and you can also link up with the local CVS for current opportunities.” 

Wera Hobhouse, Liberal Democrat MP for Bath, reaffirmed the essential role of volunteering in the Third Sector, stating: “Volunteering is the beating heart of the Third Sector. Organisations such as 3SG are an exemplary model for strengthening volunteerism by offering accessible training opportunities for volunteers and facilitating cooperation between local charities, residents and businesses, making a huge difference to the lives of those they support in B&NES.

“It is essential that this Conservative government support Third Sector organisations to secure their future and find long-term sustainable funding, particularly at a time when they are unfortunately relied upon the most.”