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Charities

Sheffield Hallam Students Give Back to the Community Through Volunteering Initiatives

Strategic Insights

— 2 min read

Sheffield Hallam University students have been actively involved in various charitable initiatives, donating over 79,000 hours to local and broader communities. Through these efforts, students have gained valuable skills, built connections, and made a positive impact on those in need. The university's students' union has played a crucial role in organizing these initiatives, working closely with local organizations to provide opportunities for students to get involved. Lilia Choi, a student at the university, found volunteering with Age UK's Dementia Wellbeing Centre in Sheffield to be a fulfilling experience, allowing her to see the impact of small moments on the lives of those living with dementia. Dona Cherian, another student, participated in a litter pick at Cleethorpes Beach, organized by the student's union, and found it to be a rewarding way to give back to the community.

Key Takeaways:

  • In the last academic year, 1,635 Sheffield Hallam students volunteered for an average of four hours per month, totaling around 79,000 hours.
  • Students participated in a wide range of initiatives, including volunteering at events such as Leeds Fest and Meadowhall Motorfest, and working with local organizations such as Bassetlaw Community and Voluntary Service (BCVS) and Sheffield Hospitals Charity.
  • The Hallam Students' Union volunteering team offers a variety of opportunities to students, including work experience, local community initiatives, and festival jobs.
  • Students' union president, Molly Pemberton, emphasized the importance of volunteering, stating that it allows students to gain real-world skills, build confidence, and make a positive impact on the community.
  • The university works closely with local organizations, such as Sheffield Churches Council for Community Care (SCCCC), to provide opportunities for students to get involved in volunteering initiatives.

Statistics:

  • 1,635 students volunteered in the last academic year.
  • Students volunteered for an average of four hours per month.
  • Total hours volunteered: 79,000.
  • 79,000 hours is equivalent to around 350 hours per week.
  • The Shoebox appeal, a Christmas initiative, saw students donate gifts like clothes and books to homeless people, socially isolated elderly people, and those residing in hostels, temporary accommodation, and safe refuges.

Sources:

  • Byline: Joseph Barker
  • Interview with Lilia Choi, MSc occupational therapy student
  • Interview with Dona Cherian, MSc physiotherapy student
  • Interview with Molly Pemberton, president of the Hallam Students' Union
  • Interview with Lucy Webber, Social and Civic Engagement Manager at Sheffield Hallam University
  • Sheffield Hallam University
  • Sheffield Churches Council for Community Care (SCCCC)
  • Bassetlaw Community and Voluntary Service (BCVS)
  • Sheffield Hospitals Charity
  • Friends of Whirlow Brook Park
  • The Archer Project

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