This #VolunteersWeek, Reindolf Asanate-Manu shared with us all the wonderful volunteering work he has been doing for knife violence. 

My volunteering journey has been growing and fulfilling. Throughout my life, I have done pockets of various voluntary activities. I have always had a sense of giving back to the community and making a positive impact on the lives of others. From working with local charities to participating in environmental clean-up projects, I have learnt a lot along the way.

Specifically, about four months ago, a few of my friends and I decided to start a youth education programme on knife violence. We recognised the urgent need to address this issue and provide young people with the knowledge and resources to prevent such violence. We formed a small team of four dedicated individuals and planned organising education meetings in different communities across London and other parts of the UK.

In our education meetings, we focused on raising awareness about the consequences of knife violence and providing practical strategies for conflict resolution and non-violent communication. We have had two meetings so far and each meeting was carefully planned and included speakers with lived experiences (ex gang members) who shared valuable insights and experiences related to the issue.

Though we haven't had a lot of these meetings, we have witnessed positive changes within the community we have reached so far. The young people who attended our education meetings have shown a greater understanding of the dangers associated with gangs and  knife violence and have expressed a desire to find to focus their time on other productive activities. We have received feedback from participants who have shared how our sessions have influenced them to rethink their choices and adopt non-violent approaches.

Beyond the immediate impact on individuals, our work also aims to have a ripple effect within the community. By raising awareness and initiating discussions about knife violence, we want to spark conversations among parents, educators, and community leaders. This will lead to a collective effort to address the issue more effectively, with more people joining our cause and offering their support.

Whilst our journey is still in its early stages, we remain committed to expanding our education programme and reaching more communities. We believe that by empowering young people with knowledge and promoting a culture of non-violence, we can contribute to a safer and more harmonious society.

This #VolunteersWeek, Rachel shared with us all the lovely volunteering work she has been doing as the Chief Executive of Tempo Time Credits and in her own community.

Tell us more about your volunteering journey?

I am the Chief Executive of Tempo Time Credits. Tempo is a national charity that has spent 15 years supporting communities across England and Wales. We work with a network of charities, social enterprises, corporate partners and local organisations. We work to connect people to the causes close to them – enabling and encouraging volunteering by awarding Time Credits that recognise their contribution.

Whilst in my day job I get to see the amazing things that volunteers give to the community every day I am also very privileged to volunteer in my own community. I am the Secretary for my local community centre, the community centre is run by a small team of volunteers who host the most amazing range of activities and opportunities for local people. From Irish dance classes to a monthly produce market, there really is something for everyone.

In January I set up a Cuppa Club at the centre to address the issues associated with loneliness and isolation. The Cuppa Club has been running twice weekly by a small team of community members and has been making a huge difference to those attending. A slice of toast, hot cuppa, good conversation and the occasional game of cards has been incredibly well received by those that have come along. It’s also created a warm space for those that have been impacted by the cost-of-living crisis.

Are there any specific details you would like to mention about your volunteering experience? 

I love giving something back to my own community. I get to meet the most amazing people and hopefully make a difference to them through the volunteering that I do. I have also been fundraising in my local community over the last year and raised over £40,000 to support the Ukraine crisis as well as for families in my local community. I work in community development daily, volunteering enables me to work in my community and hopefully make a difference to the people and the community where I live.

How do you think your volunteering work has impacted the community?

Through the volunteering that I have been involved with I have been able to bring others together. Through coffee mornings, cake sales, quiz nights and activities at the community centre I have made new friends, developed new opportunities, and provided a range of local activities that brings people together.

Today, with the lingering impact of the pandemic, coupled with the rising prices of everything from food to fuel, the volunteering landscape has changed. Many who used to volunteer now work longer hours – earning to survive – leaving our communities short of the volunteers so crucial to lifeline support services across the country. In short, volunteer recruitment is an issue happening right now, right on your doorstep. At Tempo Time Credits our work helps engage and retain new people, recognising them for their time and skills. In times of austerity, when they’re faced with difficult decisions every day, it’s a huge challenge.

You can find Rachel Gegeshidze on LinkedIn and Twitter!

You can Tempo Time Credit on LinkedIn, Twitter, Facebook and Instagram!