On Monday 18th June 4 staff members from 3M, Newton Aycliffe, through Employee Supported Volunteering (ESV), volunteered at Aycliffe Village Primary School.
3M actively encourage their employees to volunteer within the local community to develop their own personal skills and their understanding of the surrounding area.
Aycliffe Village Primary School opened its doors to the volunteers to help restore their outdoor play equipment. As the equipment is well used by the children, after being installed some years ago, they were in need of uplifting and maintenance.  The volunteers wasted no time getting stuck in and they thoroughly enjoyed the day.
The Head Teacher, Mrs Helen Sutherland, remarked ‘‘We are extremely grateful for the support given to our school by 3M and Durham University’s employee volunteering scheme.  It is wonderful to know our school has this support from members of the local community.  Our children are very excited about the difference this has made to our trim trail and climbing frame!’’
Durham University, Staff Volunteering, work alongside 3M to provide volunteers to community organisations across County Durham including Newton Aycliffe. Over the past 6 months 50 volunteers have volunteered 294 hours to charity organisations such as Newton Aycliffe Foodbank, Serenity Social and Therapeutic Horticulture and Shildon Alive.
We’re always looking for more community organisations/ charities to work with us. If you would like more information about hosting 3M or Durham University volunteers please contact Stacy Porter – community.engagement@durham.ac.uk