Volunteeering England responds to Olympic Funding Announcement

Volunteering England welcomes today’s statement by Culture Secretary Tessa Jowell MP that funding for voluntary and community organisations will not be sacrificed to meet the ever increasing cost of the Olympic Games. Although volunteers give their time and effort free of charge, providing support, management and training is by no means cost-free, and the support of National Lottery good cause funds is essential for many smaller groups to survive. However, we would seek reassurance that community groups receiving funding from arts, sports and heritage Lottery distributors will not be affected by the budgetary diversion, and further clarification as to how the DCMS will ensure this commitment will be honoured.