Volunteers Week 2009

During Volunteers’ Week (01-07 June), Guide Dogs is launching a major appeal, encouraging people in Northern Ireland to give their time to the charity.

Explains Kathy Peart from Guide Dogs: “Developing our network of volunteers is vital as we expand our services for blind and partially people throughout Northern Ireland.

“People can get involved as individuals or join our rapidly growing number of fundraising branches.  And no matter how much time you’re able to give, you’ll be making a real difference to the lives of local blind and partially sighted people.”

Volunteering roles at the charity include sighted guiding, drivers, fundraisers, speakers, administrators and coordinators; with opportunities for people with accounting, communication and other professional skills.

Guide Dogs recently announced plans to work with health services in Northern Ireland, as well as other charities, supporting blind and partially sighted people.  This will involve introducing a volunteer sighted guide service, and an extended rehabilitation service for people with sight loss.

Doris Mackay (85) from Belfast, a guide dog owner for 32 years, is one of 90 people with sight loss in Northern Ireland to benefit from the guide dog service.

She says: “Guide Dogs has transformed my life.  I’m delighted that many more blind and partially sighted people in Northern Ireland will benefit from the charity’s services in coming years.”

Guide Dogs also provides rehabilitation services to over 500 visually impaired or blind people in Northern Ireland, who don't own a guide dog.

To find out more about volunteering for Guide Dogs in Northern Ireland call
0845 371 7771 or email volunteer@guidedogs.org.uk

Volunteers’ Week is a national celebration of volunteers and volunteering; taking place from 01-07 June each year.  The Week plays a huge part in raising the profile of the millions of volunteers who regularly contribute to society, while inspiring others to get involved.