Celebrating Volunteers’ Week: building trust and stronger communities

As part of Volunteers’ Week (2-8 June 2025), Bedfordshire, Luton and Milton Keynes Integrated Care Board (ICB) is celebrating the vital role volunteers play in supporting health and care across our region – and how their contributions are helping to better connect our communities.

Volunteering is the heartbeat of community support, offering not only practical help but also building trust between services and the people they serve. The ICB is working in partnership with local volunteers and voluntary sector organisations to ensure community voices are heard and valued in the design and delivery of health and care services.

Felicity Cox, chief executive officer of Bedfordshire, Luton and Milton Keynes Integrated Care Board, said:

“Volunteers are a vital bridge between our services and the communities we serve. Their compassion, commitment and local insight help us to shape care that is responsive and inclusive.

“At the ICB, we are proud to work alongside volunteers and community groups to build trust and deliver care that truly meets people’s needs. This Volunteers’ Week, we say a heartfelt thank you to everyone who gives their time to make a difference.”

Across Bedfordshire, Luton and Milton Keynes, volunteers are supporting people in a wide range of ways: from helping patients access care, supporting mental health and wellbeing, to taking part in community engagement projects that inform decision-making.

Community Action: MK is coordinating a range of activities to mark the week, and has invited individuals or teams to any of the following events:

• Volunteer Recruitment Event – Tuesday 3 June at thecentre:MK
• Celebration at MK Rose – Wednesday 4 June, 10.30am–12pm
• Free training sessions on our new online volunteering hub the following week (10 & 12 June)

To let Community Action: MK know how volunteers have supported you, please click here.

The ICB remains committed to working hand-in-hand with our communities, recognising that local people are key partners in improving health outcomes and reducing inequalities.