Posted on: Tuesday 18 March 2025
Nearly 200 volunteers have been thanked for helping to provide a record-breaking 32,000 hours of fun over the past year.
Last night, over 100 volunteers were presented with awards from Torfaen Play Service for their work, including Volunteer of the Year, Community Inspiration Award, term time and summer volunteers, and play helper awards.
In total, around 7,000 children and families have accessed a wide range of play opportunities over the past year, including after-school clubs, respite play sessions, projects linked to schools, and half-term and summer provisions.
17-year-old Oscar Balkwill, from Coed Eva, picked up the Volunteer of the Year award for his commitment to volunteering during term time, school holidays, and weekend sessions.
Oscar, who has been volunteering with the service for over 2 years, said:
"I am grateful for the award and the praise. Thanks to the supportive staff, volunteering over the past 2 years has helped me grow, gain confidence, and acquire essential life skills. It has also provided invaluable experience for my future aspirations."
The Community Inspiration Award was awarded to Shirley Mcdonald for providing over 700 volunteering hours over a 10-month period to support children with complex needs to play.
Shirley, 46, from Thornhill, said: “I feel very privileged and humbled to receive the award. Volunteering has helped so much, giving me structure, routine and patience I didn't think I had.
"Every day with the kids is a true blessing. They bring me immense joy, whether it's handing me a drawing or simply having fun with a smile on their faces. They are the sunshine that brightens my days."
Other awards were handed out for summer and term-time volunteers, apprentices, and trainees. Volunteers also received certificates from Torfaen Voluntary Alliance detailing the number of volunteer hours they had provided.
Councillor Richard Clark, Executive Member for Children, Families and Education, who presented certificates on the night, said: “Our Play Service is a shining example of how community-driven initiatives can significantly contribute to the development of children in Torfaen.
"By providing diverse play opportunities, we are not only enhancing the lives of children and families but also fostering a sense of community and resilience. This aligns with our county plan objectives of empowering communities to be healthier, better connected, and more equal.”
The Play Service is now looking to recruit even more volunteer play workers and play helpers to support with its upcoming half-term and summer play programmes.
If you are 16 or over and interested in joining the fun, you can apply online on the Torfaen Council website -https://www.torfaen.gov.uk/en/EducationLearning/ChildrenandYoungPeople/PlayService/Volunteering/Volunteering.aspx.
For more information about the different types of volunteering and training offered, email andrea.sysum@torfaen.gov.uk