Celebrating the Power of People

Our volunteers make a real and lasting difference. Their contribution changes lives every single day, whether they are offering practical help, listening to someone who needs support, organising events, or simply being there for someone else.

Above all, their kindness reminds us of the power of community and the importance of looking after one another.

John Downing – SCT Chief Executive

On Friday, 5th June, Surrey Care Trust hosted a special celebration event dedicated to the driving force behind everything we do, our incredible volunteers. The gathering brought together our supporters, community champions, and statutory partners to highlight the extraordinary, life-changing impact we achieve together across Surrey.

Our volunteers represent the very best of our community spirit, bringing boundless compassion, dedication, and expertise to every role.

This event was our opportunity to say a heartfelt thank you and to show our partners just what is possible when a community unites.

The true value of volunteering

During the event, we shared some incredible milestones that demonstrate the vast scope of what our network of more than 300 trained volunteers delivers:

• 23,000 hours were volunteered across the county last year alone, providing a vital lifeline to nearly 5,700 people.
• £462,000 to £555,000 is the estimated annual financial value of this skilled labour given directly back to our local communities.
• 4,800 hours of training were completed by our team over the year, ensuring our volunteers are well equipped to handle a wide range of complex issues.

While the numbers are staggering, the depth of skill is what truly transforms lives. From healthcare professionals and business leaders to educators and problem-solvers, our volunteers bring a wealth of experience.

This high standard of dedication has even been recognised nationally with the prestigious Queen’s Award for Voluntary Service, awarded to our Swingbridge Community Boat crews.

Discover your place in our journey

Whether you are looking to give back or are an organisation looking to invest in local social value, there is a place for you:

• Join us as a volunteer: Anyone can join our team. Volunteering with us is a powerful way to build your own confidence, connect with your community, and enjoy something deeply rewarding. Whatever your background or availability, we have a role that matches your skills. Visit here to find out more.
• Partner with our expertise: For statutory partners, commissioners, and local businesses, Surrey Care Trust offers proven, high-value solutions that deliver measurable social impact for vulnerable people. We actively collaborate with partners to co-create sustainable, effective community networks.
• Keep in touch: Let’s keep the momentum from our celebration going and continue making Surrey’s communities places where everyone can achieve their potential. Sign up to our newsletter here.
• Explore commissioner and business partnerships: To discuss how we can collaborate on future high-value solutions, please contact Rachel Perez-Lofty at [email protected].

You can read more about our incredible volunteers below and find out more about our impact here.