A new scheme dedicated to helping people get into volunteering has been unveiled alongside a project promoting Lowestoft, its businesses and amenities.
A supported volunteer programme for the town is now being rolled out - with Discover Lowestoft Hosts set to welcome visitors in the coming weeks.
It comes after Lowestoft Rising, Access Community Trust and Lowestoft Vision – supported by Waveney District Council – were successful in a bid for Big Lottery funding. Now, with the funding in place, the two-year project will see a member of staff dedicated to help people get into volunteering. Lowestoft Rising change manager, Phil Aves, said: 'With Access Community Trust as our partners leading this project, we now have a central co-ordinator – Emmma Langdale – available to help people into volunteering, getting them ready and then matching them up with the right organisation that can look after them and get them helping. Emma is the portal to connect those interested in volunteer roles within the system there are lots of opportunities.'
Part of the concept to further promote Lowestoft and boost tourism will be new Discover Lowestoft Hosts. These will be visible volunteers who will act as tourism hosts and help people find their way about – as they welcome, inform and assist visitors. As a host, the voluntary role includes 'creating a positive presence of Lowestoft within the town centre, whilst promoting the businesses and local amenities.'
Emma Langdale, supported volunteer co-ordinator at Access Community Trust, said: 'The Discover Lowestoft Hosts will act as mobile visitor information points. The aim is for them to be available within the town centre, along the seafront and up to Pakefield, in Oulton Broad. They could meet visitors at the bus station or train station and then give details of tourist attractions.'
Individuals are now being sought for volunteers to help, and anyone interested is invited to express and interest now.
Mr Aves said: 'There is real potential here. It is a real partnership for the town – helping to promote Lowestoft – with Big Lottery putting up the money to allow us to do this.
'Come and talk to Emma by giving something back to the community – and we can help you develop new skills, improve your confidence and get out to meet new people.'
Ms Langdale added: 'The volunteer roles will not solely be as Discover Lowestoft Hosts, they will be within workplaces and it could be a real stepping stone to enhance career opportunities.
'The volunteers will be aged over 16, so it could be the beginning to your career opportunities. For young people, work experience placements are good on your CV and helpful to recruitment.'
If you would like to find out more about volunteering, call Ms Langdale on 01502 527200 or email volunteers@accessct.org
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