Posted on: Tuesday 20 February 2024
More than 180 volunteers have been celebrated at this year’s Play Service Volunteering Awards ceremony for enriching the lives of children in communities across Torfaen.
The event, held at the Congress Theatre in Cwmbran on Monday, recognised the volunteers for providing more than 28,000 hours of play support over the past year.
Meredith Lloyd Tolman, 17, from Thornhill, Cwmbran, received the ‘Volunteer of the Year’ award for her exceptional dedication to helping children with complex needs enjoy regular play opportunities.
Meredith, who has been volunteering with the service in term time, school holidays, and weekends, said: “I can't believe I have won volunteer of the year. I love working with the challenging young people on the weekends. I am going to continue to volunteer with Torfaen Play service as long as I can and I would recommend the experience to everyone."
Charlotte White, 22, from Penygarn, earned a gold award from Torfaen Voluntary Alliance for clocking over 500 hours of volunteering since the summer of 2023.
Charlotte, who supported Family Play Sessions, wrap around provisions, community based after school clubs, as well as in school work, said: “I loved every minute of volunteering with the Play Service and I’m hoping to pursue a career in this field.”
The ceremony also presented certificates to all Summer Volunteers, Term Time Volunteers, Apprentices and Trainees, as well as Torfaen Voluntary Alliances Volunteer Recognition Programme.
Councillor Richard Clarke, Deputy Leader & Executive Member for Children, Families and Education, said: “I am proud of all the volunteers who have been recognised at this year’s awards ceremony. Their dedication and passion enable many play provisions to operate throughout the year.
“Torfaen Play’s volunteering project offers a wonderful chance for people of all abilities and backgrounds to learn, grow, and give back to their community. Well done to all involved”
The Play Service is now recruiting summer volunteers. If you are 16 or over and interested in joining the fun, you can apply online on the Torfaen Council website by the end of April.
For more information about the different types of volunteering and training offered, email andrea.sysum@torfaen.gov.uk