7. 6. Statement: Volunteering Week

Part of the debate – in the Senedd at 4:52 pm on 14 June 2016.

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Photo of Carl Sargeant Carl Sargeant Labour 4:52, 14 June 2016

Diolch yn fawr i chi. Thank you very much for your contribution, Huw. Your Welsh is outstanding compared to mine, may I say?

First of all, there’s nothing you’ve said I can disagree with. I think you related to many of the community activities in the area you represent. I am familiar with some of those organisations and it’s right to say also that there are some companies that actively seek to engage with their employees, pushing them into volunteering opportunities because it actually brings back more for the company too. It’s not in your constituency, but I was with volunteers from GE yesterday, and Jo Foster was leading a team of volunteers out and about. There are many other organisations that do that.

I think what it does say—and I think you made reference to this—volunteering not only has a positive experience on our communities but, actually, it is the heart of our community Welsh spirit. It just defines us. I think what we can give, and it’s not in monetary terms, but it’s about social interaction. I think you’re absolutely right: we should celebrate the volunteers in your community and many communities across Wales.