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23 Mar 2007 15:36:39
University-based centre is UK first
The UK’s first Red Cross centre run by students has opened its doors at the University of Bedfordshire.
The centre will be home to more than thirty volunteers who will provide support for fellow students and members of the local community as well as raising awareness of the Red Cross and its aims.
Student volunteers from the University have been working with the British Red Cross for many years, so the centre was set up to provide easier access to volunteering opportunities with the organisation. The centre’s popularity soared as dozens of students signed up to take part in first aid training, fundraising and awareness raising campaigns in the local community.
Carol Leeds, Services Manager for Development and Diversity at the Red Cross, said: “This is the first centre of its kind in the UK and is led by a committee of volunteers who provide a range of services. The centre is now self-supported and will be running its own events in partnership with Red Cross staff.
“This is a very exiting development for the Red Cross and it will be interesting to see if other universities are inspired by Bedfordshire. We value the fresh perspectives and insights of the students and welcome people from a range of backgrounds, cultures and experiences who can offer so much. Many of the student volunteers are not from the UK and we will be looking to transfer them to Red Crosses in their own countries after they graduate.”
Four students have already completed a course on providing emotional support for those who have experienced trauma. They will be putting their new skills into practice at the Red Cross’s Luton base in Dunstable Road. Several other students are due to finish their first-aid training over the coming weeks and will also work at the Dallow Road centre.
Lucy Li, a final year Advertising and Marketing student and a member of the volunteer management team said: “The partnership has worked really well. At the moment we are undergoing training, but we are already able to provide first aid at community events and run campaigns at local schools and colleges and at the University.
“Working for an international organisation is very rewarding and I am very proud to be working for the Red Cross. Giving just a little bit of time can make a really big difference to people’s lives who need support the most.”
For further details of the British Red Cross centre please contact Andrea Thorogood at the University of Bedfordshire on 01582 489173 or e-mail volunteer@beds.ac.uk
Latest news» 2007» Mar» Students put a Red Cross at the centre of their University
