Gain experience by volunteering

Published Thursday, 31st May 2018

ANYONE interested in a career in sport/physical activity is being invited to develop their practical experience by taking advantage of volunteering opportunities in Hartlepool.

The Borough Council’s Sport and Physical Activity Team offers volunteers the chance to take part in a variety of sessions and events alongside experienced members of staff.

The volunteers themselves can decide how often they volunteer –even for as little as 1 hour.

Speaking on the eve of Volunteer Week which runs from June 1st-7th, Volunteer Activator Jaz Thompson said: “We have around 30 active volunteers doing an array of different volunteering, ranging from gym-based sessions, multi-sport activities and event marshalling to name just a few.”

One such volunteer is Raymond Liddell, 29, from the Dyke House area of town, who currently helps run walking football sessions at Mill House Leisure Centre.

He has ambitions of becoming a PE teacher or fully qualified school sports coach and said the opportunity to volunteer had greatly benefitted him.

Raymond Liddell

Raymond Liddell

“It has certainly given me more confidence and it also boosts your CV when it comes to applying for jobs. I think it is important to remember that you never stop learning, no matter what age you are.”

Jaz Thompson added: “Our volunteers also have opportunities to attend workshops and gain qualifications."

Potential volunteers can express an interest by emailing feelgood@hartlepool.gov.uk The Sport and Physical Activity Team will then arrange a meeting to discuss a person’s particular interests and the areas they want to volunteer in. Appointment is subject to 2 references and a DBS check.