8 August 2025
“I’m taken for granted, yet I’m priceless. I’m invisible, yet I leave traces. You can spend me, waste me, or save me – but you’ll never escape me. What am I?”
The answer is something I’m sure we all wish we had more of – time!
Time is one of the most precious things we have. That’s why I’m always struck by the generosity of those who choose to give their time to help others.
In Barnsley, we’re lucky to have so many volunteers who give their time to make a difference. They don’t seek the spotlight. They don’t ask for applause. They do it because they care.
I’m proud to be a patron of both Barnsley Hospice and Barnsley Youth Choir – two outstanding organisations that rely on dedicated volunteers. Whether it’s providing compassionate palliative care or helping young people find their voice through music, their volunteers make a huge difference.
Volunteers also make a huge difference to our local charities. At Barnsley Independent Alzheimer’s and Dementia Support (BIADS), they support people living with dementia and their families. At DIAL, they help disabled people, their families, and carers. At Action for Barnsley Homeless, they provide food and companionship for the homeless community. And at Help 4 Homeless Veterans, volunteers have helped over 1,000 former service personnel access housing and support.
One of Barnsley’s biggest and most anticipated events of the year is also entirely organised and run by volunteers: the Penistone Agricultural Show, which sees thousands of people visit our borough every September.
Since it’s summer, the chances are you’ve already been to a gala organised by volunteers. Community groups have already been hard at work putting on fantastic events in Brierley, Shafton, Royston, Grimethorpe, and St Helen’s – and there are upcoming galas in Carlton and Mapplewell. These events are always fantastic, and they simply wouldn’t happen without local volunteers.
Yet the work doesn’t stop when the bunting comes down. For example, In Brierley, residents are out every month litter picking to keep their village clean, and in Grimethorpe volunteers tend the green spaces around St Luke’s Church year-round.
Countless volunteers – like Pete Goodlad at Athersley Rec – are also out year-round giving up their time and talent so others can enjoy sport, music, and other activities.
And let’s not forget those who serve in uniformed volunteer roles – our Armed Forces Reservists and Special Constables – who work hard to keep us safe.
Of course, I can’t mention everyone. There are so many more individuals and organisations across Barnsley who give their time to help others. If you’re one of them – thank you.
If you’ve ever thought about volunteering, there’s never been a better time to get involved. Check online, community notice boards, and of course the Barnsley Chronicle to find volunteering opportunities. You might find something right up your street – and you’ll be joining the many brilliant Barnsley folk who give their time to help others.