40 years of Volunteer Link Up

1983 – The new volunteer bureau set up by Nikki Chase. The aim was to provide a link between those who need help and those who have the time to provide help. The official launch was in March 83.

1986 – VLU became an independent agency with the help of finance from the Local Development Agency.

1988 – With the prospect of closure, it was thought that funds should be raised locally. A public slide show for West Oxfordshire businesses and local civic leaders helped to attract financial support.

1996 – We moved to our current office in High Street Methodist Church, Witney and an OCC grant helped to cover running costs.

2003 – VLU accreditation as a volunteer centre awarded by Volunteering England. Received a Gold Award due to a 100% score on all aspects required. This was presented to VLU by Witney MP David Cameron.

2004 – Witney MP David Cameron presented long service awards.

2008 – 25th anniversary celebration at Langdale Hall. Long service awards were presented by Lord Hurd. There was lottery funding to cover running costs.

2012 – First GNS coordinator appointed as a result of AgeUK subcontracting the work to VLU.

2018 – WOBA charity award winner (West Oxfordshire Business Awards) and awarded Best Group in West Oxfordshire by the Oxfordshire charity and volunteer awards.

2020 – During the national lockdown, all staff worked from home. They continued to support clients, volunteers and be-frienders.

2021 – We organise weekly food deliveries in conjunction with Witney Fridge.

2023 – We are striving to promote the VLU and bring in more volunteers that can help our customers.

If you can help volunteer or need help then feel free to contact us.