A CONFERENCE aimed at supporting volunteers takes place next month.

Supported by Basildon Council and hosted by the Basildon, Billericay and Wickford Council for Voluntary Service, the event will give those who give up their time for a good cause the chance to meet other volunteers.

People will also be able to share ideas and experiences of the voluntary sector and workshops will help them get the most from volunteering.

Terri Sargent, Basildon Council’s cabinet member for community services, said: “We welcome the opportunity to sponsor and support this event which will contribute towards recognising the valuable contribution volunteering makes to local people’s lives.

“The council’s Play Your Part campaign aims to support and increase all types of volunteering across all vocations and we are delighted to be sponsoring this conference.”

Chris Evans, chief officer of the local council for voluntary service, said: “Last year, the Olympics transformed public perception of volunteering.

People realised volunteering could be attractive, exciting, open to all, aspirational, modern and of the moment. There wasasurge in volunteering during the Olympic year.

“The challenge now is to keep that spirit alive. This event will enable local groups to continue the conversation to help local charities tap into the Olympic spirit and get new supporters.”

The conference is on September 18 from 10am to 1pm – registration from 9.30am – at the St George’s suite, the Basildon Centre, in St Martin’s Square. Speakers include Robert Jackson, co-author of the Complete Volunteer Management Handbook and an Essex Police inspector, who will speak on the role volunteers can play in strengthening communities.

For more information, and to book a stall or place, contact the council for voluntary service on 01268 294124 or by e-mail at admin@bbwcvs.org.uk