It has been a year like no other and we want to celebrate the extraordinary contribution that volunteers across Britain have given to our community during these most difficult of times.
Each video is from a community member of Irish in Britain.
Adrian O'Neill, Ambassador of Ireland to the United Kingdom, launches the series with a powerful introduction talking about what volunteering means within the Irish community.
Luton Irish Forum talk about their active and inspiring volunteers, who run a befriending service and deliver meals.
Off to the East Midlands with Leicester's Emerald Centre. Mary thanks the people who've visited her every week during lockdown, and Sarah says how much she enjoys helping both young and older generations.
Welcome to the Irish Cultural Centre London! Watch and listen to Kathy, Jude and Dympna talk about what volunteering means to them.
John Giltenan of the Council of Irish County Associations pays tribute to the 'wonderful work' of the volunteers who support CICA in its important fundraising, culture and community work.
Inspiring stuff from Irish Community Services about their volunteers. Sylvia and Mary tell us how rewarding giving up their time is, while Pat and Anne say how magnificent their volunteers have been this year.
A medley of Leeds Irish Health and Homes volunteers in this video. It's really clear in these clips how beneficial volunteering is not just to those who are given support, but to the volunteers themselves. Take a look.
Thanks to West London Irish Society for the Volunteers' Week clip above about their work in the community and providing meals and emotional support during lockdown.
A big thank you to all their volunteers from Irish Community Care for Volunteers' Week.
- 45 volunteers have given 760 hours of their time over the last year
- 50 community members receive regular phone calls, building friendships that will outlast the pandemic.
Thanks to Niamh Branigan for this clip about how volunteering for Irish Film London is 1) inspiring 2) connects her with the Irish community 3) proactive and motivating.
Find out about Lewisham Irish Centre's fantastic Bia Project below as volunteers and community members talk about staying connected during lockdown.
Our final video for Volunteers Week features two charity trustees encouraging people of all ages and backgrounds to get involved in their community. Take the leap!
Music: Julia Delaney by Sláinte