Newcastle Volunteers Are Worthy Ambassadors For NSPCC Work In NI

NSPCC’s Catherine Nuttal, Committee members Anne Davey, Sheila Doran and Moyna Tyson, and NSPCC’s Clare Galbraith[/caption] LOCAL Newcastle volunteers have been praised for their commitment to improving the lives of the most vulnerable children and young people in Northern Ireland. Among the volunteers being commended for their dedication at a recent recognition event held in Belfast City Hall were Newcastle woman Judith Smyth, who gives her time to the ChildLine Schools Service, and members of the NSPCC Newcastle Fundraising Committee Anne Davey, Sheila Doran and Moyna Tyson. Lord Mayor of Belfast, Councillor Máirtín Ó Muilleoir, joined NSPCC Chief Executive Peter Wanless in celebrating the contribution of local volunteers to the fight against child abuse. Speaking at the event, the charity’s recently appointed Chief Executive said that the organisation was “hugely dependent on a dedicated core of volunteers. “While child protection has been front page news for over a year now, these are not new issues. It’s a sad fact that the disturbing cases making the headlines are, in many cases, terrifyingly familiar territory for our practitioners. [caption id="attachment_44774" align="alignleft" width="390"] From left, Adrian Summerville, Judith Smith, Adrian Logan, Maggie MacInnes and Margaret Mtchell.[/caption] “Fortunately we know that there is a genuine will among the general public to make abuse a thing of the past. That will is never better exemplified than by the unwavering commitment of our volunteers. “Our volunteers are worthy ambassadors for the NSPCC and our work. There are huge responsibilities implicit in that role, and we are incredibly grateful that so many people feel equipped for the challenge. “Unfortunately we cannot do everything and be everywhere, so we rely heavily on those who give freely of their time and energy to help us make a difference in the lives of vulnerable children and families. “Some 400 men and women in Northern Ireland dedicate hours, days and weeks of their lives each year to supporting NSPCC’s services. These individuals give their time freely to volunteer with ChildLine, to support young victims and witnesses making their way through the court system, to educate and empower primary school age children, and by participating in and running a host of fundraising activities. 91 per cent of our income comes from sources other than the Government.  This makes us hugely dependent on the efforts of individuals, communities and businesses throughout the country. “Thanks to all of our volunteers, we can continue working to transform the lives of vulnerable children and young people.” Belfast Lord Mayor, Councillor Máirtín Ó Muilleoir, urged the public to support the outstanding work being carried out by NSPCC saying: “I applaud those who already give of their time and commitment to this charity and encourage everyone to offer whatever support they can.  It is important that we acknowledge the great contribution volunteers make, and thank them for their dedication”. Whatever your reason for volunteering – be it to make a difference to vulnerable young people, learn skills and improve your CV, or to meet new people – NSPCC has an opportunity for almost everyone who shares our values and vision. To find out more, visit www.nspcc.org.uk/volunteer or contact local teams on 028 90351135. ChildLine – 0800 1111 / www.childline.org.uk]]>