By KLTV Newsdesk –

Northorpe Hall Child & Family Trust launches volunteer drive as charities across the UK face declining support

As the New Year begins, a Mirfield-based charity is urging local people to move beyond resolutions and make a tangible difference in the lives of young people across Kirklees.

Northorpe Hall Child & Family Trust has issued a fresh call for volunteers amid growing concern that charities nationwide are struggling to recruit and retain the support they need.

Despite volunteers being the backbone of the sector, only one in three adults in the UK volunteers regularly, leaving many organisations under increasing pressure.

Volunteers ‘Shape Futures’

At Northorpe Hall, volunteers play a central role in supporting children, young people and families.

“Our volunteers don’t just help, they shape futures,” says Dawn Kershaw, Volunteer Coordinator at Northorpe Hall.

“By building confidence and offering consistent support, they help young people see what’s possible for their future. Even a few hours of your time can make a lasting difference in a young person’s life, as well as your own.”

The charity supports young people facing a range of challenges, and says that consistent, trusted relationships are key to helping them thrive.

Long-Term Mentoring Makes a Difference

One of Northorpe Hall’s most impactful opportunities is its mentoring programme, which supports young people aged 10 to 19 across Kirklees.

Unlike short-term interventions, mentoring relationships typically last several months, giving volunteers time to build trust and provide steady guidance through periods of change and challenge.

The benefits are felt on both sides. Volunteers report developing leadership skills, experiencing personal growth and gaining a renewed sense of purpose.

Young people involved in the programme often see improved confidence, stronger social skills and a greater belief in their own potential.

Volunteer Drive at The Northorpe Barn

To encourage more people to get involved, the charity is hosting a Volunteer Drive on Tuesday 27 January at The Northorpe Barn, its on-site event space in Mirfield.

Two sessions will be held, at 1 pm and 6 pm, to make the event accessible to as many people as possible.

Attendees will hear case studies from young people who have benefited from Northorpe Hall’s support, as well as first-hand accounts from current mentors.

The sessions will also explain the application process and offer an opportunity to ask questions of the Northorpe Hall team.

More Ways to Get Involved

In addition to mentoring, the charity is seeking volunteers to support its work in other areas, including site support, office administration, marketing and visual content creation, and future trustee roles. No previous experience is required.

The message from Northorpe Hall is clear: commitment matters more than credentials.

“No experience is necessary, just a willingness to invest time to help change lives,” the charity says.

Event Details

• Date: Tuesday 27 January 2025
• Location: The Northorpe Barn, 53 Northorpe Lane, Mirfield, WF14 0QL
• Times: 1 pm and 6 pm
• Registration: https://bit.ly/3LELmPC

As the New Year unfolds, Northorpe Hall hopes more local people will choose to turn good intentions into meaningful action — and help shape brighter futures for young people across Kirklees.