We actively encourage our people to develop and harness their skills to add value to the many voluntary and community organisations who rely on volunteers to achieve their objectives. As a result, many people at Hartnell Taylor Cook take time out to give back to their community. We think that this is such a valuable activity that we give everyone one working day a year in order to volunteer for something that’s close to their heart.
As 5th December marks International Volunteers Day, it’s an opportune moment to reflect on the incredible contributions made by our HTC individuals who have dedicated their time and energy to volunteering over the past year. Their volunteering activities have come in many forms, and we’re proud to share some of the highlights from our own team members’ efforts.
Helping the Homeless in Covent Garden
Every winter, Martin Davenport can be found braving the chilly Tuesday evenings on the streets of London, offering a helping hand to those in need. For several years now, Martin has volunteered with a local charity that provides hot meals and essential supplies to the homeless in Covent Garden, not far from our London office. This act of kindness has become a regular part of his routine, and he finds immense value in the simple act of making a difference during the coldest months of the year.
Mountain Guiding for Better Mental Health
Edward Fenwick-Moore, a passionate outdoor enthusiast, has volunteered on two separate occasions this year with Blackdog Outdoors, a charity that uses outdoor activities to support mental health. As a trainee mountain guide, Edward led groups on two separate walks in some of the country’s most beautiful and challenging landscapes. The first event took place on Pen Y Fan in the Brecon Beacons, and the second on Y Wyddfa (Snowdon). For Edward, the opportunity to combine his love for the outdoors with his desire to help others is deeply fulfilling. It’s not just about the physical walk; it’s about creating space for meaningful conversations in the fresh air and encouraging people to prioritise their mental wellbeing. In the coming months, he’s also planning to take part in a sphagnum moss planting project with the British Mountaineering Council (BMC).
Volunteering at the Wallace and Gromit Grand Walk
In September, Anne Dare took part in a memorable volunteering opportunity at the Wallace and Gromit Grand Walk at Ashton Court in Bristol. This fundraising event, which attracts families and participants of all ages, is part of the Wallace and Gromit’s Grand Appeal, supporting Bristol Children’s Hospital. Anne spent the day as a volunteer marshalling the event, overseeing the registration desk and ensuring everything ran smoothly in the car park. One of the day’s highlights was a rather unusual experience – a ride in Wallace’s famous sidecar, which proved to be a fun and quirky part of her volunteering experience!
Inspiring the Next Generation of Surveyors
The past six months have seen many of our younger surveyors return to schools in the local area, giving presentations and encouraging the next generation to consider a career in surveying. Jess Smith and Sophie Allen led a session at Oasis Academy Brightstowe in Shirehampton (north Bristol), where they spoke to students about the exciting opportunities available in the world of surveying and the diverse pathways into the profession. James Frost and Charlie Pooley have also been regularly invited to secondary schools across Bristol, where they share insights into their careers and the skills needed to succeed in the surveying profession.
We found these stories inspiring and hope it encourages more of our people to get involved in the community next year and explore the various ways in which we can give back.
