Hundreds of charities and organisations across Dorset are celebrating the contributions of volunteers across the county.

National Volunteers Week runs from Monday, June 3 to Sunday June 9, dedicated to recognising volunteer efforts.

This year marks the fortieth year of the celebratory week and Volunteer Centre Dorset, based on Acland Road in Dorchester, is inviting people across the county to share how volunteering has impacted their lives. 

The website reads: “This year we want to hear your volunteer stories. If you volunteer, or are part of a volunteer-involving organisation, or benefit from the services of a volunteer, then please share your story using the hashtag #volunteeringdorset

“Let's spread the word about the army of volunteers who help each and every day, giving their time to make our community a better place.”

Dorset Echo:

The centre also wishes to stress that volunteering takes on many forms. It could involve working in charity shops, helping at one-off events, mowing a lawn, or a role that is longer-term.

Marie Waterman, CEO of Volunteer Centre Dorset, said: “Volunteering is an act of kindness that reaches into many aspects of our lives – but we just might not recognise it.

“It is thanks to the thousands of volunteers who give their time every day, that our environment, schools, courts, sports clubs, and emergency services such as the police and RNLI, benefit from this help, and organisations can continue to provide the wonderful and necessary services that they do.

“We are proud to be part of something so special and would like to thank everyone who gives their time and knowledge freely to make Dorset a better place.”