Sunderland West becomes Clean and Green thanks to volunteering group

National Volunteer Week aims to say thanks to the hard-working people helping within our communities every single day. Taking place between Tuesday 1 to Monday 7 June, Sunderland City Council is highlighting all opportunities it provides, and recognising everyone who does their part to care for the city and its residents.

One of the many projects that have gone above and beyond to look after the city is West Clean and Green.

Based in the West area of Sunderland, West Clean and Green is run by Sunderland North Community Business Centre and funded by the West Area Committee. Their aim is to make the area a place to be proud of through environmental conservation, with the help of local volunteers.

The project organises many activities in the area, including cleaning up the Children's Forest in Pennywell, scattering wildflowers in wooded areas, organising litter picks, and growing vegetables at the Red Machine Allotments.

They have also helped to build and install planters along Fordfield Road to help resolve parking issues outside Highfield Park School.

Gail Murphy, Volunteer Recruiter at West Clean and Green, said: "Our project has been running for two years now and we have helped improve many areas in and around the West of Sunderland, opening up green spaces for local residents to enjoy. Volunteering outdoors and working with nature is a great way to improve your physical and mental health, as well as providing the opportunity to socialise with others and explore your local community."

Cllr Linda Williams, Portfolio Holder for Vibrant City at Sunderland City Council, said: "West Clean and Green do a fantastic job keeping the West area of Sunderland in the best condition possible. Volunteering their own time to rejuvenate the community has done wonders, and I would like to thank each person for putting their efforts into improving their local area and lifting community spirit.

"There are many opportunities for people to volunteer in Sunderland, from tidying up your local area to helping vulnerable residents in day to day life. I encourage everyone to sign up to a Voluntary Community Sector group such as West Clean and Green or apply for an individual volunteering activity."

For National Volunteer Week, people in Sunderland can also recognise those who go above and beyond in their community by nominating them for a Shining Star Award. The one-off event, which will be taking place in September, will see residents awarded for volunteering in their community over the last year, with several categories including Organisation of the Year, Sunderland's most Neighbourly Neighbour, and Community Fundraising Champion.

To get involved with West Clean and Green, contact 07850 916476 or email gailmurphy@communityopportunities.co.uk

Find out more about volunteering in Sunderland at www.sunderland.gov.uk/volunteering

To nominate someone in your community for a Shining Stars Award, visit www.sunderland.gov.uk/shiningstars