The launch of the Volunteering for Pembrokeshire Strategy 2025-2030 at the “Putting the Pieces Together” Conference at Queen’s Hall, Narberth was a major milestone for community life in the county.

Hosted by Pembrokeshire Association of Voluntary Services (PAVS), the event on June 25 was attended by volunteer managers, volunteers, community leaders, colleagues from public services, and local businesses. It featured guest speakers Dr Helen Timbrell, Rob Jackson, and Emily Morgan who hosted interactive workshops.

Discussions were also held on the possibility of developing a volunteer training ‘passport’ to support skills development across the county. It was also a great opportunity to launch the nominations for the prestigious 2025 Pembrokeshire Volunteering Awards that will take place in November.

The Strategy sets out eight strategic goals including making volunteering more inclusive, raising awareness, and recognising volunteers’ invaluable contributions. It focuses on the need to create volunteering opportunities for young people and families, outdoor and environmental, digital and remote, flexible and short-term, and employer-supported volunteering.

“This Strategy is not just a document—it’s a promise,” said Jess Bickerton, Chief Executive of PAVS.

“Volunteering is the heartbeat of our communities. Together, we’re building opportunities for people of all ages to get involved and make a difference. We want everyone to play a part: your time, your skills, your involvement matters.”

Councillor Jon Harvey, Leader of Pembrokeshire County Council, praised the Strategy, which had recently been given Cabinet support, saying: “We are proud to support this Strategy and the benefit these initiatives provide. We hope to see many more PCC staff and people across the county volunteering in the future for worthy causes around Pembrokeshire.”

Real-life stories feature in the Strategy, which can be viewed on the PAVS website, www.pavs.org.uk/volunteering-support which also explains how to nominate individuals and groups for an award.