Star turns by student volunteers

Nine Walsall College students have received certificate awards from Walsall for All in recognition of their voluntary work.

The Walsall for All Star Volunteer Awards programme was set up to thank volunteers for the work they have done for their communities.  The initiative placed a special emphasis on the volunteers’ work during the coronavirus pandemic and lockdown.

Gail Lewis, Student Engagement Co-ordinator submitted the nominations on behalf of the students.  She said: “The awards represent just a fraction of the community-based activities our students have been involved in during the lockdown so far.  Their  sole aim was bringing people together and making sure no-one feels alone.

“I’m so pleased their efforts have been recognised in this way.  The awards will enhance their CVs.  They are testament to the many personal attributes they are developing.”

Thomas Durbin was one of the individuals receiving an award.  Since lockdown began, the media student has been working with Walsall College’s Student Union to develop online resources around mental health awareness.  He also produced messages of hope that have helped bring his classmates closer together.

“It’s been important for people to stay positive and keep in close contact with each other in any way they can,” said Thomas.  “I’m happy I could do something around this in terms of people’s focus and what they could do for others.

He added: “Finding out I was getting this award was exciting.”

Councillor Garry Perry, portfolio holder for culture and communities at Walsall Council, said the awards were a great way to recognise the work done by volunteers during the pandemic.

He said: “It goes without saying a volunteer is worth more than their weight in gold and contributes in the most positive way to civic and community life.

“Covid-19 has shone a light on many individuals some taking up a volunteer badge for their first time.

“The individual and collective acts of kindness, the generosity of spirit and goodwill have been an inspiration to many and it is right they are recognised.”