MPs highlight rural volunteer action

In a Westminster Hall debate on Tuesday, led by Anthony Mangnall MP (Totnes, Con), the role of volunteer groups in rural settings was discussed with appreciation. Mr Mangnall highlighted the contribution of volunteers in organising and supporting events and activities in rural communities, such as food and music festivals, regattas and Christmas markets. These events not only raise money but promote tourism and provide unique experiences that reflect the local character. 

Mr Mangnall focused on volunteer groups providing local services throughout the year in South Devon and across the country. He mentioned LandWorks, a charity based in Dartington that helps individuals in prison or at risk of going to prison to reintegrate into society and find employment. The organisation has successfully reduced reoffending rates by providing training and support to its trainees, offering a potential model for tackling recidivism on a national scale. 

The discussion also touched on the issue of isolation and mental health in rural communities, with Jim Shannon MP (Strangford, DUP) highlighting the importance of young farmers’ clubs in combating loneliness. Mr Mangnall acknowledged the need to support organizations within communities and reassess existing structures to address such issues in the agricultural sector. 

The debate further emphasised the vital role of volunteer groups including Broadband for the Rural North (B4RN), which connects rural homes to the internet, and the Rapid Relief Team (RRT) that provides assistance during emergencies and disasters. He applauded the RRT for its efficient response in providing medical equipment to a constituent in need. 

While recognizing the invaluable contributions of these organizations, Mr Mangnall raised concerns about the declining number of volunteers since the COVID-19 pandemic. He called for efforts to encourage volunteering and highlighted the availability of funds and grants from both national and local government to support volunteer groups. He also emphasised the importance of finding a balance between the state, private and charitable organisations to empower local communities and address societal challenges effectively. 

In response, Stuart Andrew MP, the Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Culture, Media, and Sport, thanked Mr Mangnall for initiating the debate and joined him in acknowledging the significance of volunteering in rural settings. He expressed the Government’s support for volunteer groups and mentioned various funding opportunities. Appreciating the contributions made by volunteers, he assured of its commitment to work collaboratively to encourage and sustain volunteering in rural communities. 

The debate highlighted the vital role of volunteer groups in rural areas, their impact on local communities and the importance of supporting and recognising their efforts. It illustrated the value of collaboration between the Government, the private sector and charities to strengthen rural communities through volunteering.