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Students honoured for volunteering to support York communities

Posted on 7 June 2023

Students who have made outstanding contributions in the local area were celebrated at the Student Volunteering Awards this week.

University of York students volunteer for a vast range of projects

The volunteers recognised at the awards were nominated by 22 diverse host organisations across York, reflecting the variety of skills and general enthusiasm the University’s students bring to the community. 

University of York students volunteer for a vast range of projects to tackle city priorities, such as inequalities in health and wellbeing, loneliness and young people struggling to achieve their potential.

The ceremony, held at the Guildhall, was hosted by Professor Matt Matravers, Chair of the University’s Community Volunteering Committee and BBC Radio York’s Elly Fiorentini. The Lord Mayor of York and Sheriff of York also attended the awards along with members of the University Executive Board. 

Ukraine conflict

The Counselor Chris Cullwick, Rt Hon Lord Mayor of York thanked student volunteers on behalf of the City.

Andrew Hill from Manor Academy nominated Lauren Stanton, a 3rd year MSci Psychology student at York, who helped new pupils with particular challenges; he said: “Lauren supported twins who fled the conflict in Ukraine. She supported them in lessons to access the content, translate, support the teacher and ensure that they felt supported and happy.

"Lauren has been invaluabl;, she has now volunteered for three terms and has been incredibly flexible, conscientious and supportive. The twins are exceptionally happy now and really appreciate, value and enjoy her support.”

Positive activity

In 2021-2022, over 1,889 University of York students gave nearly 36,002 hours of their time to volunteering, equating to over £375,141 if they were paid the national living wage.

George Arksey, from local charity ‘The Island’, nominated Kashi Gill, a 4th year Social Work student, who helped to establish a new open access group in Foxwood for young people aged 13-18. George said: “Without Kashi's support and enthusiasm the opportunity for young people to come and meet with staff / volunteers in a safe place, engage in positive activities, and build a stronger relationship with their community would not be available in the Foxwood area.”

Proud

Chair of the University of York's Community Volunteering Committee, Professor Matt Matravers, said: “University of York students have an impressive and longstanding tradition of volunteering in the community and we are delighted by the numbers of student volunteers that continue to give their time to support the wider community. 

"Supporting so many aspects of life in York, this year's awards recognise time spent working with groups and on issues from nursery schools to older citizens, and the environmental impact to cost of living support.  The University is, as always, immensely proud of the contribution our students make to the City of York and beyond."

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