Volunteers Step Up, Skills Up: Free Health & Safety Training Rolls Out

Imagine this: A bustling morning at the St. George’s Bay Promenade, the sun casting a golden glow over the Mediterranean. Among the usual crowd, a group of volunteers gather, not just to enjoy the view, but to learn. They’re here for something unique – free health and safety training, courtesy of the Malta Volunteer Centre.

Why This Matters to Malta

Malta’s volunteer sector is booming. From environmental conservation to cultural events, volunteers are the lifeblood of our communities. Yet, while their dedication is unmatched, access to relevant training has often been a challenge. This new initiative aims to change that.

Malta’s Minister for Inclusion and Social Well-being, Julia Farrugia Portelli, sees this as a significant step forward. “Volunteers are the backbone of our society,” she says. “Ensuring they have the necessary skills to carry out their roles safely and effectively is not just beneficial, it’s our responsibility.”

What’s On The Table?

The training covers a wide range of topics, from basic first aid to risk assessment and manual handling. It’s designed to equip volunteers with the tools they need to stay safe and effective in their roles.

Take, for example, the volunteers at Din l-Art Helwa, Malta’s leading heritage NGO. They’re often involved in heavy lifting and restoration work. The manual handling course will be a breakthrough for them, says the organisation’s president, Anthony F. Formosa.

How To Get Involved

If you’re a volunteer or an organisation looking to sign up for the training, here’s what you need to know:

• The courses are free and open to all volunteers, regardless of the organisation they’re part of.
• They’re held at various locations across Malta and Gozo, with times and dates tailored to suit volunteers’ schedules.
• To sign up, simply visit the Malta Volunteer Centre’s website and follow the instructions.

So, whether you’re a seasoned volunteer or just starting out, this is your chance to step up, skills up, and make a real difference in Malta.

And remember, the next time you see volunteers in action, from the Three Cities to Gozo’s rural villages, know that they’re not just dedicated – they’re also well-equipped to keep themselves and those around them safe.

Let’s celebrate and support our volunteers. After all, they’re the ones making Malta the vibrant, caring community it is.