Serving Our Community for Over 45 Years
Welcome to NHVS
“True community is where people listen to each other; where the marginalised are excluded and included”
the Canonesses of the Holy Sepulchre - 2024
Welcome to the New Hall Voluntary Service (NHVS), where our mission of service and hospitality has been at the heart of our community since 1978. As we embark on this journey together, we are reminded of the words: “True community is where people listen to each other; where the marginalised and excluded are included.” At NHVS, we strive to embody these values every day, creating an inclusive and supportive environment for all. Founded in 1978, NHVS holds a special place in the heart of New Hall School, reflecting the core values of our Mission & Ethos Statement. Mrs. Jeffrey, our Principal, has often described NHVS as the school’s ‘jewel in the crown’, highlighting its central role in shaping our school community and ethos. As we welcome you to NHVS, we invite you to join us in our journey of service and compassion.
Our Journey and Values NHVS’s journey began with a vision of service and hospitality, rooted in the founding principles of our Religious Community. Since its inception, NHVS has remained steadfast in its commitment to serving the needs of our local community, embodying the values of compassion, empathy, and inclusion. Established in 1978, NHVS was founded on the belief that acts of service can profoundly impact lives and foster a sense of belonging. The Religious Community played a pivotal role in shaping NHVS, instilling in it the ethos of Catholic faith in action. Over the years, NHVS has evolved and grown, but its core values have remained unchanged. Today, NHVS continues to be a beacon of hope and support for those in need, embodying the spirit of service and hospitality that defines our school community. As we look to the future, we remain committed to upholding these values and making a positive difference in the lives of others.
“Mum and dad had a lovely time on Friday. They thoroughly enjoyed themselves. Mum had a wobble about going the day before but dad talked her round and she was so pleased she went.” Daughter of a guest “May I take this chance to say what a fantastic service you offer to our elderly, the trip to spend time with the children and other people is a real lifeline for some of our residents, in times when it’s very difficult to find things that are free for our elderly to do it’s refreshing.” Mrs M Hastings, CHP Housing Care Officer
Volunteer Engagement A Distinctive Volunteer Army NHVS we are fortunate to have a diverse and dedicated group of volunteers who contribute to our mission of service and hospitality: Student Volunteers From Year 7 onwards, students have the opportunity to engage in one-to-one contact with members of our community in need. Traditionally, volunteering becomes compulsory during Year 8, ensuring that all students experience the transformative value of giving back to others. Many students continue their involvement beyond Year 8, with some alumni remaining active volunteers throughout their lives. On average, 20 students join each group, with high demand leading to waiting lists for certain days. As students progress to Year 12, many of them step up to become leaders of the Action Groups, fostering a culture of volunteerism that extends into adulthood. The support of parents, staff, and other adults is instrumental in the success of our Action Groups. Parent Volunteers We are fortunate to have 12 regular parent volunteers, many of whom have dedicated over a decade of service to NHVS. Parent volunteers, often parents of current students, find fulfilment in actively participating in school life. They play a vital role in NHVS, regularly meeting with the NHVS Manager to share ideas and contribute to program development. Their dedication is deeply appreciated, as expressed in a heartfelt message from the NHVS Manager: “Remember, I’m here for you anytime you need a chat or a hand with anything. Your dedication and hard work mean the world to us, and I’m here to support you in any way I can. Thank you for being the heart and soul of NHVS. You’re all truly wonderful!” Staff Volunteers 10 staff members generously give up their lunch breaks or evenings each week to support our Action Groups. They recognise NHVS as an expression of the school’s ethos and are motivated by the opportunity to make a meaningful impact. Staff volunteers form strong connections with parent volunteers, students, and guests, finding fulfilment in the camaraderie and sense of purpose that NHVS offers. Religious Community Volunteers The founding Religious Community has been a pillar of support for NHVS for over 40 years. Their unwavering dedication and personal witness to the importance of service have left a lasting impact on our organisation. Despite their busy schedules, they continue to actively participate in NHVS events, embodying a legacy of commitment to voluntary service.
Our Action Groups NHVS operates many groups, which include the following: Shaftesbury: Shaftesbury is an evening group held in The Barn, our dedicated Chaplaincy venue. Local adults, some with learning or physical difficulties, socialise with each other and with students in Years 10-13 and volunteers. Guests enjoy playing games and celebrating birthdays. The Wilderness Group: A lunchtime group for students to visit an allotment in Chelmsford, run by the Wilderness Foundation UK. Whilst there, students contribute by assisting with the maintenance of vegetable plots for the local community Tuesday Tuck In, Red Cross Lunches, Barn Banquet, Friday Feast: Lunchtime groups offering social interaction and meals for elderly guests. For some of our guests, this is the only social contact that they have. Melbourne Homework Club: This was set up by the Religious Community, the Canonesses of the Holy Sepulchre, to provide homework support for young people in need in the local community. Alongside the Canonesses, New Hall student volunteers give weekly support and encouragement to pupils at other schools who do not have access to resources and help because of their family circumstances. Holiday Camps: NHVS student volunteers continue their support of the community during the school holidays by volunteering at holiday camps run by the Religious Community and local charities such as Kids Inspire and the Little Edi Foundation. Students give up their free time to run activities and provide friendship for children with learning difficulties and those from deprived backgrounds.
“I did a lot of voluntary work – NHVS was a big part of my time at New Hall and that influenced me in what I wanted to go on to do. I wanted to do something that was community-based – it was either fireman or policeman. I went straight into policing after my A Levels, which was a bit of a life-shock.” Liam Robertson (alumnus 2011-2018) Chaplaincy Prefect Professional Development Officer, Essex Police
Our Impact NHVS has made a significant impact on the local community by providing crucial support to vulnerable members, especially during challenging times like the COVID-19 pandemic. Despite the obstacles faced, NHVS remained resilient and adapted its services to continue serving those in need. During the COVID-19 lockdown, NHVS took proactive measures to ensure the well-being of its guests: Phone Calls: Volunteers regularly reached out to guests via phone calls to check on their wellbeing, provide companionship, and offer assistance. Meal Deliveries: NHVS organised meal deliveries to ensure that guests, particularly the elderly and those with specific needs, had access to nutritious food and essential supplies. Communication Efforts: NHVS maintained regular communication with guests through newsletters, postcards, and other means to provide updates, share resources, and foster a sense of connection and community. These initiatives exemplify NHVS’s commitment to supporting the local community and its ability to adapt and innovate in the face of adversity. By providing essential services and fostering social connections, NHVS has played a vital role in helping vulnerable members of the community navigate challenging times with resilience and compassion.
Our Awards NHVS’s dedication to excellence and service has been recognised through various awards and accolades over the years. These honours highlight the organisation’s significant contributions to the community and its unwavering commitment to making a positive impact. Below are some of the prestigious awards NHVS has received: Commendation for Voluntary Community Service Award (Who Will Care? Awards 2017): NHVS was commended for its outstanding voluntary service to the community, recognising its efforts in providing support and assistance to vulnerable members. Nationwide Awards for Voluntary Endeavour: NHVS received recognition for its exemplary voluntary endeavours, showcasing its dedication to serving those in need on a national scale. Make a Difference Regional Winner (Whitbread Award) and Make a Difference Volunteering Awards 1996: NHVS was honoured regionally and nationally for its exceptional service to the community, demonstrating its impactful contributions and commitment to making a difference. The Millennium Award for Helping Young People to Fulfil their Potential (Finalist 2000): NHVS was recognised as a finalist for its efforts in empowering young people and helping them realise their full potential, underscoring its role in nurturing future leaders and contributors to society. National Westminster Bank National Award (Project Respond Competition): NHVS received national acclaim for its responsive and innovative approach to community service, showcasing its ability to adapt and address emerging needs within the community. Investing in Volunteers Award (2019): NHVS was honoured with the Investing in Volunteers Award, highlighting its commitment to volunteerism and the development of high-quality volunteer programs. Brentwood Diocesan Citizenship Award 2023: NHVS received recognition from the Brentwood Diocese for its exemplary citizenship and contributions to the community, affirming its role as a beacon of compassion and service. Essex Community Award 2012: NHVS was honoured with the Essex Community Award, celebrating its significant impact and positive influence within the local community. TES School of the Year 2016-17 (Special Commendation for NHVS): NHVS received a special commendation as part of the TES School of the Year award, recognising its outstanding contributions and the invaluable role it plays in enriching the school community and beyond. These awards reflect NHVS’s ongoing commitment to excellence, service, and making a meaningful difference in the lives of others.
Join Us Ready to make a difference? Join NHVS today! Whether you’re passionate about volunteering, eager to donate, or simply want to spread awareness, there are countless ways to get involved and be a part of our mission. Volunteering with NHVS is easy and rewarding. Contact us directly to learn more about volunteer opportunities. Every contribution, big or small, helps make a difference in the lives of those we serve. Can’t volunteer? You can still make an impact by donating to NHVS. Your generous contributions allow us to continue our vital work and support those in need within our community. Together, we can create positive change and build a brighter future for all. Join us today and be a part of something truly meaningful.
Thank You We extend our heartfelt gratitude for your interest in NHVS and potential support. Your engagement reflects the values highlighted in our introduction, emphasising the importance of community service and hospitality in fulfilling our school’s mission. Your involvement is invaluable as we strive to make a positive impact in our community. Together, let’s continue spreading kindness and compassion to those in need. Thank you for being a part of our journey.
Contact For more information about NHVS or to get involved, please contact us: Email: nhvs@newhallschool.co.uk Phone: +44 (0) 1234 567890 Website: www.newhallschool.co.uk/nhvs