Voluntary Action North Somerset (VANS) is praising businesses who give back to their communities during Volunteers Week.

Volunteers Week is running until Thursday to celebrate volunteers and thank them for the huge contribution they make.

Doreen Smith CEO of VANS said: “Volunteering in the UK contributes a staggering £23.9billion a year to our economy and our sector proudly promotes individuals who do amazing things in their communities.

“This year we want to applaud the contribution business leaders make to their communities.

“Each day we will be highlighting a different business or business leader on our website and social media.”

Volunteering can have a huge impact by enabling people to learn new skills or boosting self-esteem.

Employer-led volunteering also provides huge benefits to communities.

VANS wants to highlight employers who support their staff to take paid time off to volunteer and leaders who help out community groups.

Doreen added: “VANS can offer businesses advice and guidance on all aspects of employer-led volunteering.

“Many businesses often think volunteering only offers opportunities to pick up a paintbrush or spade. While this is welcomed and appreciated, businesses can offer so much more.

“They often have business skills and expertise charities need such as digital marketing, business development and financial management which could be shared without the need to spend a lot of time.

“This would benefit the charity and the people they service in their communities.”

One of the business leaders VANS has paid tribute to for his commitment to volunteering is Tim Lamb, managing director of Lambtrad Ltd.

He said: “I believe it’s incumbent on every business leader to try and have a positive impact in the community they operate.”

VANS is keen to hear from business leaders who are keen to learn more about how they can make a difference to a community group.

For more details, visit www.vansweb.org.uk