Northamptonshire Community Foundation Community Hero of the Week

Volunteer Action Oundle provides vital support to communities across East Northamptonshire, operating throughout the Oundle and Thrapston areas and the surrounding rural villages. Working across 48 parish councils, the charity helps residents access essential services, reduce isolation and remain connected to their communities.   A grant of £8,112 from the Constance Travis Community Endowment Fund, awarded via Northamptonshire Community Foundation, has enabled Volunteer Action Oundle to expand its volunteer network and strengthen the delivery of its transport and befriending services.   The funding supported the recruitment of 39 new volunteers, significantly increasing the charity’s capacity and allowing it to provide more reliable support to local residents. Volunteer Action Oundle directly supported 2,406 beneficiaries, helping people attend medical appointments, access social activities and maintain their independence. The organisation estimates that the wider impact extended to almost 2,900 people, including family members whose caring responsibilities were eased through the support provided which enabled them to stay in work.    The expanded volunteer team has helped reduce waiting times, improve service reliability and strengthen community connections across rural Northamptonshire. By providing practical support and regular social contact, volunteers play a crucial role in reducing isolation and ensuring that vulnerable residents remain connected to the people and services they need.   Northamptonshire Community Foundation is the county’s largest independent grant maker, having given more than £24 million in grants since its inception in 2001. This year marks an exciting milestone for NCF – 25 years of inspiring local giving for local needs. Building on this, NCF is also looking 25 years ahead, with bold ambition for a fairer, thriving and more connected county for generations to come. Their latest Impact Report is ready to read here.