Volunteer Agencies
A number of organisations in the County will help you to find volunteers.

Cumbria Council for Voluntary Services (CVS)
Cumbria CVS’s Volunteer Network provides support for every aspect of the volunteer recruitment and management process.  Volunteer recruitment and matching services are available through volunteer centres at Appleby, Barrow, Carlisle, Kendal and Maryport.

Would you like some volunteers?
ReFresh is an England wide initiative which offers young people the chance to learn more about the diversity of their communities through one-day volunteering events. The project provides 16-25 year olds with the opportunity to take part in the conservation of historic buildings of worship, to build awareness of their community, and make a positive and visible contribution to their environment in just one day. If you are interested please contact: Rebecca Wilkinson on 0207 643 1412 or email This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it or visit http://www.cathedralcamps.org.uk/refresh.htm

Cumbria ProHelp
ProHelp is a service designed to provide free professional assistance from local professional firms and individuals to community and voluntary groups. The sort of people who offer their help include accountants, architects, consulting engineers, IT specialists, marketing and PR professionals, solicitors etc.  The people who offer their services do not charge and ProHelp cover their travel expenses.

ProHelp would be typically beneficial for a church requiring some initial advice (time limited) in a specific area of expertise eg an architect to discuss plans for an extension or renovation, or a quantity surveyor. Cumbria ProHelp is managed by Cumbria Community Foundation. Details of how to apply are available here.

REACH
REACH supports voluntary organisations by helping them secure high-quality business, management, technical and other professional expertise on a voluntary basis. To do this, they recruit skilled career people who are willing to donate their time and find them placements in voluntary sector roles where their skills are urgently needed.  See the REACH website for further information and how to register.

The local REACH co-ordinator for Cumbria is Lalik Nasmyth. She will welcome your call to discuss your requirements.