West Lothian Council has received praise for its army of volunteers as councillors have given their support to a plan aimed at increasing the number of volunteers. The Council’s Executive has approved a proposal to bolster the existing force of volunteers who assist staff in providing services. However, there was a note of caution that the council should be wary of volunteers replacing paid employees.
Nahid Hanif, the Anti-Poverty Service manager, highlighted the importance of volunteering in the current financial climate, noting that it allows local residents to get more involved in their communities and helps the council achieve its strategic goals. Volunteers have been contributing significantly to various council services, bringing added value and gaining valuable skills and experience in return.
With 48 volunteers already supporting vulnerable residents in West Lothian, the council is looking to develop a strategy that can be implemented across all departments. Volunteers are seen as bringing a diverse range of skills and experiences that enhance services, particularly in areas of high deprivation. The use of “experts by experience” has proven to be particularly beneficial.
While councillors generally support the idea of enhancing the volunteer experience, concerns have been raised about the potential risk of volunteers replacing essential council work currently undertaken by trained staff. Councillor Pauline Stafford emphasized the importance of not compromising universal public services due to financial constraints.
Despite the challenges, Councillor Susan Manion commended the development of a structured volunteer program, which is expected to bring capacity and rich experiences to all council departments. Council leader Lawrence Fitzpatrick highlighted the valuable feedback that volunteers provide, which informs policy development and service improvement.
In conclusion, the plan to increase volunteer numbers in West Lothian demonstrates the value and impact that volunteers bring to the community and local services. By carefully balancing the roles of volunteers with those of paid staff, the council aims to create a cohesive and supportive environment for all involved.
Insights and Summary:
The article highlights the positive impact of volunteers in West Lothian and the council’s efforts to enhance their contribution. It underscores the importance of volunteers in supporting local services and communities, while also addressing concerns about volunteers replacing paid staff. By developing a structured volunteer program, the council aims to ensure that volunteers bring diverse skills and experiences to improve services without compromising essential functions. Overall, the article showcases the value of volunteering and the collaborative approach to strengthen community involvement and support in West Lothian.