In times of uncertainty and struggle, it is often volunteers who step up to the plate to make an added difference to support those in need.
In the face of what has been described by Prime Minister, Boris Johnson as the “worst public health crisis in a generation”, the impact of volunteers, watchful neighbours and caring colleagues is unlikely to lessen as the United Kingdom, Ireland and the rest of the world attempt to deal with the coronavirus outbreak.
Volunteer Expo, the new, national volunteering show, hosted by Rotary in Great Britain and Ireland and scheduled to have been taking place in May, is one of hundreds of large events up and down the country which has succumbed to a postponement as a result of the outbreak.
We are delighted that even with a postponement, the support, enthusiasm and necessity for this event remains incredibly strong.”
It wasn’t a decision taken lightly, but a decision nonetheless that puts the health and safety of everyone associated with Volunteer Expo, first.
For every media story of panic buying, there is sure to be another, perhaps of a community group mobilising to collect essential supplies or prescriptions for those in self-isolation, probably not getting the same level of coverage.
The need for the selfless actions of volunteers will not go away. It may even increase.
That’s why Rotary, and the team behind Volunteer Expo, remain totally committed to maintaining the vision of bringing to life a show to celebrate volunteering, civil society and the impact of not-for-profit organisations.
We have a clear plan and direction, with Volunteer Expo now taking place from 7th – 9th May 2021, remaining in Hall 2 at The NEC, Birmingham as originally planned.
After close monitoring of the COVID-19 (Coronavirus) we have taken the decision to postpone Volunteer Expo.
This decision has not been taken lightly, but collective health and safety is our top priority.
New date: 7th-9th May 2021.
Full statement: https://t.co/b3kBugnJbW pic.twitter.com/ouDbIrGSrL
— Volunteer Expo Live – The UK Volunteering Show! (@VolunteerExpoUK) March 13, 2020
We are delighted that even with a postponement, the support, enthusiasm and necessity for this event remains incredibly strong. The event’s speakers, including headliner Frank Bruno, and partners are fully on board. The hunger for this event across the voluntary sector has not diminished.
Our exhibition of leading local, national and international charities and organisations will also stay in place, alongside a terrific line-up of workshops covering everything from digital fundraising to mental health, and mobilising community volunteers to emergency first aid.
The need for the selfless actions of volunteers will not go away. It may even increase.”
In fact, we’re determined that the extra 12 months of planning will present even more opportunities to bring exciting, informative and inspirational activities to those coming to visit us. It will be worth the wait.
⭐️ ANNOUNCEMENT ⭐️
We have over 4️⃣0️⃣ free workshop sessions now added to the Volunteer Expo programme!
Covering everything from digital fundraising to emergency first aid, and creating community projects to protecting nature.
➡️ Full programme: https://t.co/Co9XlF42GW pic.twitter.com/uMW9szbgoi
— Volunteer Expo Live – The UK Volunteering Show! (@VolunteerExpoUK) March 5, 2020
The ability to book your free tickets to Volunteer Expo 2021 is up and running and exhibition opportunities are available for any charities or community interest groups looking to raise their profiles and meet new supporters.
Stay safe, and we look forward to seeing you in 2021.
Find out more about Volunteer Expo by visiting the website.
