Here at Voluntary Action Leeds, the Giving Time team has been celebrating securing a further three years funding from the National Lottery Community Fund.

The project was established in 2014 as a brokerage service linking adults with criminal convictions to volunteer opportunities and is now entering its sixth successful year!

Andrina Dawson, Co-ordinator for Giving Time said;

“We are delighted to be able to secure the resources to continue our work for a further three years. We have worked hard to develop a specialised model which enables organisations to easily and confidently recruit volunteers with criminal convictions, delivering benefits to both the organisation and the individual. Over the next three years we are excited to see the positive impacts this work will continue to have on our communities.”

The project has achieved a number of successes since implementation, including a reduction in crime and reoffending whilst also increasing employability in volunteers. In addition the project has succeeded in reducing social exclusion, improved the well being of users and eased their integration back into communities.

Change, Grow, Live said:

“[Giving Time] gives hope to people with criminal convictions – people think that they can’t volunteer, that they can’t do things. It gives hope that it might lead to employment.”

A volunteer added:

“Volunteering has given me independence and the chance to help. It’s given me purpose.”

The success of the project has resulted in Voluntary Action Leeds securing a further three years funding from The National Lottery Community Fund for Giving Time.

Andrina added:

“Volunteering can be an effective means of reducing reoffending and supporting rehabilitation. It provides volunteers with an opportunity to ‘break the cycle’ and step away from criminality, whilst enabling them to build their confidence and self-esteem.”

Congratulations to all the Giving Time team and a huge thank you to the National Lottery Community Fund and all the lottery players!

You can read more about the Giving Time project in their comprehensive toolkit here.

If you would like any further information about  implementing the Giving Time franchise in your area, or a more detailed Delivery Guide, please contact Voluntary Action Leeds on 0113 297 7920.

 

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