Example of an anchor organisation

Gloucestershire County Council staff

GCC Volunteers have participated in a range of activities in their communities, including helping with preparing properties for the Home for Ukraine scheme through Police cadets, volunteering with local guides groups and communities services such as Tic+ (a children’s and young people charitable organisation) and being involved in local conservations groups such as the ‘Friends of Leckhampton Hill and Charlton Kings Common’ (FOLK).

"The additional volunteering leave policy is an excellent way in encouraging staff to offer their services and make a real difference to local community groups. I am currently a Trustee of TIC+, a local charity which offers counselling and mental health support to young people in Gloucestershire, and the availability of these additional days has really helped and enabled me to spend more time with the charity in discussing operational and strategic planning when required throughout the year. This volunteering role has also developed my own knowledge and skills, all of which are fully transferable into my work with the council."

"An important aspect of the work (practical conservation) we carry out is improving access for a wide range of users such as walkers, dogs and cyclists. The hill offers spectacular views over Cheltenham and beyond and is very well used by local people who appreciate the opportunity to enjoy exercise and fresh air on their door step. It was particularly popular during the pandemic when the importance of local green space to a sense of well-being became much more mainstream. Fellow volunteers are an eclectic mix of mainly retirees and students and is a great way of meeting different people in a relaxed and informal setting. FOLK welcomes new volunteers!"