A council is shining a spotlight on the power of volunteering.

Fareham Borough Council is celebrating the contributions of volunteers and encouraging residents to get involved during Volunteers’ Week, which runs until June 8.

Throughout the week, the council is sharing testimonials and stories on social media to highlight the impact of volunteering and inspire more people to take part.

Councillor Connie Hockley, executive member for leisure and community at Fareham Borough Council, said: "We are proud to support the many wonderful charities and voluntary organisations that work so hard to provide their important services to local people in the borough.

"The benefits of getting involved cannot be underestimated, so I would urge anyone thinking of volunteering to take the plunge and look for local opportunities available to them."

The voluntary and community sector in Fareham includes a wide variety of organisations, charities, and individual volunteers supporting residents of all ages.

One key organisation is Community First Wessex, which is funded by the council to promote volunteering opportunities and connect individuals with suitable roles.

It also organises the annual Community Showcase on behalf of the council, celebrating the voluntary sector and giving groups a chance to share their work and recruit new volunteers.

This year’s Community Showcase will take place on West Street, Fareham, on July 5, from 10am to 4pm.

Residents can also use Volunteer First, a free online service that matches volunteers with opportunities in their area.

The council itself occasionally offers volunteering roles, especially around major events.

Volunteers are currently being recruited to support Fareham’s Big Weekend, taking place on July 13, and July 14.

Volunteer marshals are needed to help guide visitors around the event and ensure a smooth experience.

Those interested can contact the council’s leisure and community team by emailing leisure@fareham.gov.uk.

More information about volunteering, community support, and funding can be found on the council’s website at fareham.gov.uk/voluntaryservices.

Volunteering is known to improve wellbeing and social connectedness while making a positive difference to the wider community.