LIB DEMS SEEK WAYS FOR SOUTHWARK COUNCIL TO REWARD LOCAL VOLUNTEERS

1.12.49pm UTC (GMT +0000) Tue 8th Nov 2005

Southwark Council on Wednesday night unanimously pledged its support to timebanks as a way of ensuring volunteers are rewarded and thanked for their work and as a way of bringing members of the community together.

In a motion from Liberal Democrat Councillors Caroline Pidgeon (Newington ward) and Beverley Bassom (South Bermondsey ward) Council Assembly agreed to find meaningful ways for the Council to support Southwark Timebank Consortium - the organisation that brings together the 8 existing timebanks across Southwark. 

The motion follows the start up of a pilot Timebank in the Council's Environment and Leisure Department, and the motion calls on Executive to receive a progress report on this pilot with a view to rolling the principle out across all departments.

Commenting, Councillor Pidgeon said:

"I have been involved with timebanks in Southwark for a number of years and have been constantly impressed by their success in bringing together so many different people to share their time and skills.  I am delighted that this motion received unanimous support. 

"Volunteers contribute a massive £40 billion a year to the British economy but the number of volunteers is reducing.  It is vital that we find meaningful and worthwhile incentives to encourage people to volunteer in our community and timebanking offers such incentives.

"Big organisations like the council have a huge amount to offer local timebanks and I hope that this motion will encourage all members and council officers to find ways to get involved."

Councillor Bassom added:

"Timebanking is a great way for people to learn new skills as well as realising what they have to offer others. 

"There is so much that the council can offer - from treats like leisure passes and free video rentals to practical skills through work experience placements and courses."