There are approximately three million volunteers in health, disability and welfare organisations in the UK. That’s the same number as those who are employed in social care and NHS combined.
In the past few years the pressure on these volunteers has grown, as they try to address the demand caused by cuts in funding for public services and benefits. From food banks to A&E, volunteers are delivering vital services to many of those most in need in the UK.
As the debate over public sector funding continues, we want to see how volunteers have been helping. To show the contribution volunteers make and the gaps they are filling in public services, we’d like to see your photos and videos, and hear stories of your experiences while frontline volunteering.
Have you been volunteering in a hospital, food bank or charity recently? Or are you a public service professional who works with volunteers? Tell us about your experiences - positive or negative. We will use the most interesting contributions in our reporting.
You can share your photos and perspectives by clicking on the blue “Contribute” button on this article. You can also use the GuardianWitness smartphone app or the new Guardian app and search for “GuardianWitness assignments.”
- GuardianWitness is the home of readers’ content on the Guardian. Contribute your video, pictures and stories, and browse news, reviews and creations submitted by others. Posts will be reviewed prior to publication on GuardianWitness, and the best pieces will feature on the Guardian site
