West Lothian’s army of volunteers praised as councillors back plan to increase numbers

West Lothian’s army of volunteers has been commended as councillors support a plan to grow their numbers, as reported by the Daily Record. The initiative by West Lothian Council aims to expand its dedicated volunteer base to assist staff in delivering essential services to the community. Council members have endorsed proposals to attract more individuals to lend a helping hand, although a cautious note was sounded against volunteers replacing paid employees within the council. The Council’s Executive recently approved the development of a corporate strategy to promote volunteerism across different departments, acknowledging the valuable contribution volunteers make in enhancing services and empowering communities.

The Anti-Poverty Service manager, Nahid Hanif, highlighted the importance of volunteering in the current financial climate, where resources are constrained, and services are under strain. Volunteer involvement not only facilitates access to council services for those in need but also aligns with the council’s strategic objectives. The commitment and skills that volunteers bring have been recognised as a significant asset, benefiting both the council and the volunteers themselves. Plans are underway to establish a centralised process to harness the full potential of volunteers and amplify their impact across various council services.

Volunteers have played a crucial role in supporting the Anti-Poverty Service since 2010, with 48 individuals currently assisting vulnerable residents, particularly those from disadvantaged areas. The diverse skills and experiences that volunteers bring enrich the service, offering new perspectives on service delivery and ensuring a responsive and compassionate approach. The active recruitment drive has resulted in a more inclusive pool of volunteers that better represent the communities they serve. While councillors have shown overall support for enhancing the volunteering experience, concerns have been raised about the risk of volunteers being used to replace essential council functions, especially amidst financial constraints and a recruitment freeze in certain areas.

Councillor Pauline Stafford cautioned against inadvertently replacing vital public services with volunteers, emphasizing the need to preserve the roles of trained professionals responsible for critical decision-making and risk assessment. However, the development of a structured approach to volunteering was welcomed by Councillor Susan Manion, recognising the potential for volunteers to contribute expertise and diversity to all council departments. Council leader Lawrence Fitzpatrick highlighted the invaluable input of volunteers in shaping policy and providing essential feedback, demonstrating the vital role they play in community engagement and service improvement efforts.

In conclusion, the commitment to expanding volunteer numbers in West Lothian reflects a proactive approach to community involvement and service enhancement. While the benefits of volunteerism are evident in empowering local communities and supporting essential services, it is crucial to strike a balance that preserves the integrity of paid roles and upholds the quality of service delivery. By fostering a collaborative and structured approach to volunteer engagement, West Lothian Council aims to harness the collective strength of its volunteers for the betterment of the community.