Richmond: Volunteer speed matching event

L&Q residents, who are interested in giving their CV a boost and learning new skills by volunteering in the local community, are invited to a Volunteer Speed Matching event in Twickenham on 7 April 2011.

Richmond Council in partnership with Jobcentre Plus, Richmond Volunteer Centre and Housing Association Landlords, are working together to encourage social housing residents to sign-up to this new style of event where they will be able to network and learn skills that will benefit them in the future job market.

At the end of the event twenty people will potentially be offered a chance to take up a volunteering position that will enhance their CV and employability in the future. After the event, help will be provided to attendees in order to encourage ‘matches’ with the organisation of their choice.

Volunteering will not affect the right to receive welfare benefits, as long as the only money received is to cover volunteering expenses. The event will take place from 12.30 to 3pm in Clarendon Hall, Twickenham, TW1 3AA.

Sheryl Martin, Neighbourhood Investment Officer at L&Q Housing Association, said: “This is a great partnership project to help social housing residents gain skills and experience. L&Q is committed to supporting the local community and we know that volunteering can really help unemployed residents on the journey back to work so we’re delighted to be working with the Volunteer Centre, Richmond Council and the jobcentre on this unique event.”

Cllr Pamela Fleming, Strategic Cabinet Member for Community and Development said: “So far 10 voluntary organisations, including Horse Rangers, Home-Start and Age Concern, have signed up to take part in the event. Social housing residents who attend will get a four minute slot, in speed dating style, with each organisation to listen to what they have to say and see which one would be best suited to them.

“Volunteering provides people who may not currently be in work or people who are looking into taking their first career steps, with a great platform not only to enhance their existing experience and build new invaluable skills, but also to get out into the community and meet people. This is a great initiative between the Council, Housing Associations and voluntary organisation partners in the borough.”