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PVON Meeting 13th May 10-12 Bloomfield Centre, Narberth / Online

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PVON Meeting 13th May 10-12 Bloomfield Centre, Narberth / Online

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You don’t have to book a space (unless you are joining online as we will need to send you the link). Sadly, we cannot provide lunch this time, but you are welcome to bring your own lunch and we can have a shared lunch and networking from 12-1pm.

Book here /\

The focus for this meeting will be Volunteers’ Week (1-7 June 2026) and we would love to hear your plans. We can also continue our discussions about our 2026 priorities and future planning, there will also be plenty of time for networking/ sharing.

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PVON meeting 13 May 2026 10am-12noon Seminar Room, Bloomfield Centre Narberth

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PVON meeting 13 May 2026 10am-12noon Seminar Room, Bloomfield Centre Narberth

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Bursary application form (free courses for Volunteers) here 

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Bursary application form (free courses for Volunteers) here 

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More about the scheme in the item below this one (scroll down), but please do encourage your volunteers to apply - you can do the form with them (or for them with their permission).

Emergency First Aid at Work https://www.pembrokeshire.gov.uk/course-details/EMERFAAW

18/05/2026

Venue Haverfordwest Youth Club, 9.30 – 5.00pm

Lots of great opportunities to attend a course (for free):

Digital Skills

Emergency First Aid
Emergency Paediatric First Aid
Food safety in catering
International Certification of Digital Literacy (ICDL)
Microsoft Office Skills
Safeguarding - Children and Young People Level 2
And lots more here
https://www.pembrokeshire.gov.uk/adult-learning

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The PAVS ‘Big Do’ 5th June – The Centre Simpson Cross 

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The PAVS ‘Big Do’ 5th June – The Centre Simpson Cross 

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We will be inviting PAVS members, corporate partners, and the general public, to our ‘Big Do’. Which we hope will be a chance to get together to ‘do’ something (some volunteering) but also to have a bit of a ‘do’ (as in a celebration). We will provide lunch and there will be a chance to network with others and of course a chance to do something that helps (another organisation and/or the community).

There will be some outdoor volunteering activities in the community growing garden and meadow/ grounds maintenance. There will also be a selection of indoor activities to get involved with, the Cwtch Post-box and Jars of Kindness have confirmed but we are looking for more activities.

So if you have some volunteering activities people can do indoors at a table (e.g. making/ crafting items that can be sold for fundraising, online/bitesize volunteering, sorting/pricing/upcycling items, folding fliers or stuffing envelopes and so on) please book via the link above please do not use this form to book an information/ promotion stand. If you would prefer to bring something that can be done outside, or needs some outside space please just email louise.wilkinson@pavs.org.uk and I will check with The Centre.

We would be looking for activities that people can get involved with from about 10.30am-12.30pm followed by lunch and networking from 12.30pm-1.30pm. Stallholders can arrive from 9.45am, and visitors will be arriving from 10am.

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PAVS Big Do activity / volunteering booking form

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PAVS Big Do activity / volunteering booking form

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This update is brought to you by the WCVA Internal Volunteering Team to provide information, updates and invitations to enable the audience to be informed, connected and engaged with the volunteering landscape in Wales, and beyond.

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Volunteering Update - Winter 2026 - ENGLISH

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This update is brought to you by the WCVA Internal Volunteering Team to provide information, updates and invitations to enable the audience to be informed, connected and engaged with the volunteering landscape in Wales, and beyond.

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Volunteers Don't Grow on Trees: Why Strategy Matters More Than Ever

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Volunteers Don't Grow on Trees: Why Strategy Matters More Than Ever

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An interesting article highlighting the importance of strategy in volunteer engagement.

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Volunteers Don’t Grow on Trees: Why Strategy Matters More Than Ever

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Volunteer engagement has always been rooted in generosity, purpose, and passion. Those of us who work in this space know volunteers don’t just “grow on trees.

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Rob Jackson's blog, with lots of interesting articles

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Rob Jackson's blog, with lots of interesting articles

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Including

Open Data and Volunteer Passports: Are We Solving the Right Problem?

Three Shifts That Might Define Volunteer Engagement in IYV 2026

The best of 2025

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Call to Action for the Future of Volunteering

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Call to Action for the Future of Volunteering

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Built from a global survey and national, regional and global dialogues across 2025, the Call to Action reflects the perspectives of volunteers, organizations, governments, and the private sector.

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Notes from PVON meeting 4th February 2026 10am-12.30pm

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Notes from PVON meeting 4th February 2026 10am-12.30pm

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Hybrid PVON meeting (face-to-face or online) and Volunteering Strategy planning for 2026. At Paul Sartori House, Haverfordwest or via Microsoft teams. 10am-12.30pm (to 1.30pm if staying for lunch)

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Impact toolkit now available for FREE (but a bit out of date perhaps)... (4th edition coming out next year) For over 25 years, the Institute for Volunteering Research has developed research to provide evidence on the difference volunteering makes for those involved with volunteers and for the volunteers themselves. Measuring the difference has been integral to our work. In 2005 we were early sharers of our impact assessment knowledge and experience through offering our Volunteer Impact Assessment Toolkit. You can access a free copy of its much-used third edition from 2015

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Volunteering Wales Grants - now closed for 2025

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Volunteering Wales Grants - now closed for 2025

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New round now open!

The closing date for applications is 24 October 2025 at 11:59 pm.

An information session will be held online on 2 September, between 10.30 am – 12.30 pm.

GRANT AIMS

Increase volunteer engagement and satisfaction by removing barriers to volunteering for people of all ages and from all parts of society.

Support the creation and development of high quality and positive volunteering opportunities in Wales.

Promote changes in beneficiary organisations to embed volunteering into their working practices and culture eg obtaining the Investing in Volunteers Award.

Funding is available for not-for-profit organisations proposing projects up to two years, for up to £30,000 per annum.

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Volunteering Wales Grants is a scheme funded by the Welsh Government to promote and improve volunteering in Wales. Volunteering Wales is about ‘…the kind of country we want to be’.

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for the attention of Volunteering Practitioners Network, Volunteering Wales Network and Volunteering Wales Grant Holders

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at sylw’r Rhwydwaith Ymarferwyr Gwirfoddoli, Rhwydwaith Gwirfoddoli Cymru a Deiliaid Grantiau Gwirfoddoli Cymru

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If you weren't at the conference on 25/06/25 please take a moment to complete the survey by end of July.

PVON is free for Volunteer Managers/ Supervisors to join. Meetings are held 3 times a year (zoom/ team) with guest speakers/ updates, networking/sharing with others. In between meetings emails are sent out and information is put onto the PVON padlet. Information in the email updates includes, information relating to new trends/ reports on volunteering, training courses, volunteering fairs, updates from Welsh Government and/ or WCVA and so on.

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PVON meeting 19th March 2025 - summary of meeting

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PVON meeting 19th March 2025 - summary of meeting

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Here is a brief summary of the meeting.

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Dr Helen Timbrell slides

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Volunteering Conference Slides Volunteering is changing...and so must we

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Volunteering Conference Slides Volunteering is changing...and so must we

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Rob Jackson Slides

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Volunteering Conference Slides Young Volunteers

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Volunteering Conference Slides Young Volunteers

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Emily Morgan FLVC

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Volunteering Conference Slides Training Passport for Pembrokeshire

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Volunteering Conference Slides Training Passport for Pembrokeshire

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Louise Wilkinson

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Here is the final version of the Volunteering Strategy for Pembrokeshire.

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NEW Volunteering Wales website user guide

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NEW Volunteering Wales website user guide

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Guide from WCVA for organisations

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Our Guest Speaker was Sam Sims, Volunteering Officer (GAVO - Newport)*. Sam gave a powerpoint presentation (slides attached) looking at autism and some adjustments that can be made to support volunteers with autism. There was also a short Q&A session.

Updates from PAVS:
Volunteering Wales website

New grant to support volunteering in Pembrokeshire (TBC)

Volunteering Event (WCVA) April

Feedback from National Volunteering Conference (2023), NCVO Time Well Spent and Time Well Spent - Volunteering Among the Global Majority

Please have a think about:

Any training/ guest speakers you would be interested in

Your plans for Volunteers' Week 2024

There will also be time to share what you are doing, anything in particular you would like to highlight - or ask about and network with colleagues from other organisations.

*Sam previously worked in adult autism services in Occupational Therapy for an autism diagnostic service

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Recruitment and retention of autistic volunteers

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Make Your Mark Inclusive Inclusive Volunteering Toolkit

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Make Your Mark Inclusive Inclusive Volunteering Toolkit

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This toolkit is designed to support voluntary organisations in Scotland to make their volunteering programmes more inclusive.

Drawing on this data, and the existing experience of the Make Your Mark membership in the form of case studies, the toolkit offers practical steps to enhancing inclusion and diversity in the volunteering sector in Scotland.

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Make Your Mark: Volunteering Toolkit (Main)

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This toolkit and report are the result of a project in 2022/23 supported by the Scottish Government as part of Scotland's Volunteering Action Plan. Make Your Mark is an ongoing campaign to make heritage volunteering for all in Scotland. It was created in 2020 as part of Our Place in Time, Scotland's first national strategy for the historic environment.

The team behind this toolkit

Yvette Taylor is a Professor in the School of Education, University of Strathclyde researching gender inequalities, LGBTQ+ life and social class. Yvette holds a Royal Society of Edinburgh (RSE) Personal Fellowship (2023-25) on Queer Social Justice. Churnjeet Mahn is a Professor in the School of Humanities, University of Strathclyde researching migrant communities and LGBTQ+ life. She has worked on Equality, Diversity and Inclusion (EDI) initiatives in the Scottish heritage sector. Erin Burke is the Communications Officer of the Make Your Mark campaign. They have a background in community engagement and inclusive heritage practice. Jeff Sanders is the Project Manager for Dig It! at the Society of Antiquaries of Scotland. He holds a doctorate in archaeology and his professional experience focuses on engaging new audiences with heritage.

Additional Thanks

Graphic Design, Website, Accessibility. Brian Tyrrell, Stout Stoat Press.

Illustrations and Photographs. Saffron Russell, Julie Howden, and Helen Pugh. Thanks to Archaeology Scotland, Historic Environment Scotland, Scottish Civic Trust, David Livingstone Birthplace, Glasgow Women's Library for additional photos.

First Published 2023.

This work is licensed under the Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International License. To view a copy of this license, visit:
creativecommons.org.

produced in partnership with

Economic barriers
to participation

All volunteer roles require people to give their time, but some people may need to work long hours to make ends meet, have childcare or other responsibilities, and thus have a lack of free time.

Some volunteer roles are in-person rather than online. Some volunteers will have to access transport, which can be prohibitively expensive.

Some roles require equipment (computers, wifi, uniforms, tools) to be undertaken.

Some roles require disclosure checks, which cost money and may discourage people with convictions or experiences of being unhoused from applying to volunteer.

Some people who receive UK State benefits or who are seeking asylum may not be aware that volunteering will not affect their benefits or status, and may be nervous about volunteering.

Some people who volunteer may be giving up time that they'd otherwise use to earn money to pay for food and other needs.

Some volunteers may have childcare responsibilities, and need to pay for childcare cover whilst they volunteer.

Social & cultural
barriers to belonging

Although volunteer programmes may encourage everyone to apply, attitudes, assumptions and previous experiences may prevent people from getting involved. Each sector of volunteering has some common assumptions about what a typical volunteer looks like.

For example: There is a perception that museum volunteers are typically white and middle-class, and that many have degrees or qualifications. Some potential volunteers may think that it would be difficult for someone without qualifications or a good knowledge of history to volunteer in a museum.

Examining barriers

Potential volunteers may face these social and cultural barriers to volunteering with your organisation:

Experiences of structural discrimination: Experiences of racism, for example, can reduce faith in the willingness of white-led or white dominated organisations to support and value diversity.

Lack of confidence: Everyone has useful and valuable skills and experiences, but some people may have had negative experiences where they were made to feel undervalued or unqualified in society. This is commonly experienced by marginalised groups (e.g. because of their disability or race).

Ideas about what 'volunteering' means: Many communities have informal types of voluntary work (e.g. religious service or 'helping neighbours out'). This is very common in working-class, migrant, disabled and LGBTQ+ communities.

Attitudes and assumptions amongst staff in volunteer organisations: The lack of diversity within volunteer organisations can lead to gaps in knowledge and lived experience, resulting in stereotypes and discriminatory views going unchallenged.

Physical barriers to access

The site or building that people volunteer at can be a barrier to volunteering.

Exterior elements: Physical barriers can prohibit people from entering your site, and may include things like parking areas, kerbs, paving, steps and doors.

Interior elements: Physical barriers can also prohibit people from moving around your site, having their basic needs met or engaging with the volunteer role. This includes things like stairways, doors, toilets and washing facilities, lighting and ventilation, lifts and escalators, floor coverings and signs.

Reflecting on your own experiences

Everyone has different backgrounds, identities and needs that shape our position in and understanding of the world. It can be helpful to think through your experiences and how they impact you. There are several self-guided tools that can help:

Power and privilege are two interconnected terms. They have become useful ways to conceptualise the everyday hurdles some people face when navigating daily life. For more guidance on terms related to equality, diversity and inclusion, please see the glossary at the end of this toolkit.

The Intersectionality Wheel is reproduced from designs by Sylvia Duckworth.

"Intersectionality is a lens through which you can see where power comes and collides, where it locks and intersects. it is the acknowledgement that everyone has their own unique experiences of discrimination and privilege." - Kimberlé Crenshaw.

Centring the voices and
experiences of volunteers in Scotland

Centring a diverse volunteer voice in the development of volunteer policies, procedures and opportunities is key to ensuring that your volunteer programme is accessible, inclusive, relevant and fulfilling for everyone.

Surveys

You could partner with a community group to survey their members about their perceptions and experiences of your organisation and volunteer programme. You could ask:

Have you heard of our organisation? If so, where/how?

Have you visited our site or participated in our events? Why or why not?

Did you know you could volunteer with us?

Have you considered volunteering with us before? Why or why not?

What would you want to get out of volunteering with us?

How could we make our organisation and volunteer roles more accessible, relevant or interesting to you?

Focus groups

Another method you could use to better understand marginalised people's perceptions and experiences of your organisation and volunteer programme is to host focus groups.

Our top tips for organising focus groups are:

Partner with organisations that engage with marginalised audiences. These organisations are best placed to understand their audiences' needs, help you organise an accessible space and advertise the session to participants.

Ensure that you have everyone's informed consent. Adapt NCVO's template consent form to draft a basic consent form outlining the purpose of the focus group.

Frame the approach as an open discussion. Some focus group participants may be worried about offending a representative from your organisation. Be clear that the session is an open discussion, every experience is valid and there are no wrong answers. You could also consider hiring an external facilitator or partnering with a local equality council to help facilitate the sessions.

Establish caretaking practices and procedures. Some participants may talk about distressing instances of racism, sexism, homophobia, ableism and/or classism that they experienced whilst trying to visit a site or participate in a volunteer opportunity. Prepare a list of organisations and resources that participants can access for additional support should they need it. You should also make it clear to participants that they can take a break or leave at any time, and do not have to answer any questions they don't want to.

Recruiting volunteers

There are several examples of inclusive recruitment best practice that the volunteer sector can draw on, such as:

The following information provides suggestions based on feedback from focus groups with potential volunteers from diverse backgrounds.

Sharing volunteer stories

Having your current volunteers share their stories can encourage people to try out volunteering by giving more information about roles and the benefits of volunteering. Content created by volunteers, also called user-generated content, is 10 times more trusted than content produced by organisations themselves, so it's a powerful marketing tool.

You could share blog posts or videos with your volunteers talking about:

1. Their role and the tasks they undertake.

2. Why they were interested in volunteering.

3. Their favourite volunteering experience.

4. How volunteering has impacted their life.

Taster sessions

Taster sessions are informal ways for people to learn more about an organisation or volunteer role ahead of applying. They can help to alleviate any questions or concerns that people may have about volunteering.

During the session, it can be helpful to introduce the day by covering:

People could then choose the role most interesting to them and break into groups to complete a small task associated with the role. After 20 minutes, groups could switch roles so people can try out a few different types of tasks and see what they like.

Shadowing opportunities, like taster sessions, can help potential volunteers get a sense of your organisation and volunteer roles, as well as alleviate any anxieties about volunteering.

Multiple ways to apply

Providing multiple ways to apply to your volunteer opportunities allows people to choose the communication channel accessible or most comfortable to them.

Multiple ways to apply could include:

Advertising opportunities

Advertising opportunities is a key issue. Developing a proactive plan combining social media (especially targeted at community groups), community radio stations and hubs and events within community settings is a positive step towards reaching 'out' to volunteers.

Working in partnership with community organisations is another beneficial vehicle for building trust, especially in resolving issues which may arise later. In your introductory communication to potential partners, you should specify:

1. What your organisation does.

2. What volunteer roles you offer.

3. Why you want to involve a more diverse range of volunteers.

4. What your volunteer programme can offer their members/audiences.

5. What the other organisation could do to support your volunteer programme. This might entail:

Working with community collectives can help to connect volunteering organisations to other socially-driven care groups. Thistles and Dandelions have created a toolkit to help organisations partner with community groups.

If you're keen to connect with a relevant partner organisation or group, but not sure where to start, Make Your Mark manages a database of organisations in Scotland who work with and represent excluded groups.

Flexible opportunities

Especially since COVID-19 and the cost of living crisis, flexible opportunities are a requirement for many people who can't afford transport or childcare costs involved in volunteering, or have barriers related to health and/or disability. Ongoing innovation in sourcing flexible opportunities will allow more people to consistently engage with the benefit of volunteering.

Asking about volunteers' needs

Having an open and ongoing conversation about volunteers' needs is key to making volunteering more accessible. It's important to avoid making assumptions and speak to each person individually about their needs, as every person has different abilities and has had different experiences.

To foster a culture of open conversation around needs, you could:

Provide detailed accessibility information on all volunteer role descriptions.

Ask volunteers at the application stage if they have any access needs that you should be aware of.

Organise monthly or quarterly catch ups with volunteers to check in and revisit how you can better support them.

Offering adaptations

Once you've had a conversation with a volunteer about their needs and circumstances, have a think about how you could change up your practices to support their volunteering. You could:

Reconsider what skills or experiences are actually necessary. Some volunteer role descriptions include things like being personable and friendly, which can exclude people who are looking to volunteer to build their confidence. You may also consider whether volunteers really need any prerequisites to complete your roles, or if they can be trained and supported to do their tasks.

Offer a buddy system or group or family volunteer opportunities. If a person is worried, unsure or anxious about volunteering, you could offer to initially pair them up with an experienced volunteer who can support them. You could also offer group or family volunteering opportunities so that people can try out a new activity amongst the security of friends and family members. The buddy system can also be a great approach for supporting people who are volunteering to improve their English language skills.

Offer shorter shift times. Some people may not be able to stand for long periods of time, or may be living with conditions that cause fatigue. Think about if you could break up longer shifts into shorter periods, or adapt roles so volunteers can complete them whilst seated.

Communication

The way organisations communicate - the words and images used, tone of voice, format of designs and channels chosen - affect whether they exclude or include a person or a group.

Design

How communications are designed can increase the accessibility of your information. In order to maximise the number of people who can understand your graphic design, consider the following:

Left align your text.

In some languages, like English and Scots, sighted readers are used to reading from left to right, and from top to bottom. Left aligned text is therefore typically the easiest to read because it best follows these expected conventions.

Right align, centred, and justified text is harder to read because sighted readers have to work harder to find the start of each line, and have to process unexpected spacing in-between words.

Write in Sentence Case.

Writing full words in capital letters is harder to read, so capital letters should only be used for proper nouns and words at the beginning of sentences. If you would like to highlight or emphasise words, use bold or increase the size of the font.

Use sans serif fonts.

San serif fonts (fonts without decorative lines or curls added to them) are generally easier to read than serif fonts.

Accessible fonts do not have mirrored lettering, meaning 'd' is not the mirror image of 'b'. Accessible fonts should also have distinct characters for uppercase i, lowercase L and the number 1.

If your organisation's brand guidelines include the use of a serif font, use a sans serif font for alternative versions of communications.

Roboto (Regular, Bold & Italic)

Open Sans (Regular, Bold & Italic)

Use at least 12-point font size in printed media.

A point is the smallest unit of measurement in a font, and averages 0.358mm. Therefore, using 12pt should ensure text will be large enough to be comfortably read, regardless of font choice.

In digital texts, users should be able to zoom or reflow your content, so point size is less of a priority.

Use bold, avoid italics.

Italicised fonts contain exagerated shapes which can make them harder to read. Underlining text to emphasise it can be similarly disorientating. Slanted oblique fonts are often conflated with italics; while they're less confusing, regular fonts are preferred.

Use bold sparingly

Overuse can make a piece of text harder to read, rather than highlight key information.

Replace italics with quotation marks.

Italics are a popular way to indicate the title of something or to signal a quote, but italicised text changes the weighting of the font and makes text harder to read.

Use high contrasts.

Documents with a high level of colour contrast between background and foreground colours are easier to read. You can check the strength of your colour contrast with WebAIM's Colour Contrast Checker.

WCAG level AAA guidelines recommend a contrast ratio of at least:

Contrast levels aren't everything! Consider other forms of legibility, like combinations of glaring colours.

Use images intentionally.

Because not everyone will be able to access the image in the same way, images should not be the sole way of communicating information. Images should illustrate key messages, not introduce new points. Images and graphics should portray a diverse range of people.

Using inclusive language increases the number of people you can communicate with. Below, we've outlined some general best practices of inclusive language.

For more specific guidance on terms relating to race, sex and gender, sexuality, class and disability, please see the glossary.

Use simple sentence structures. This means that sentences are concise and ideas are broken up into short paragraphs.

Use the active voice. This means that a sentence has a subject that acts upon its verb. For example, "I attended the Make Your Mark event" (active) rather than "The Make Your Mark event was attended by me" (passive).

Address readers directly by using 'we' and 'you'. This language is approachable and encourages audiences to engage with you. Inclusive communications views communication as a partnership in which all people are equal, with equal amounts to give, share and learn from each other.

Avoid jargon, such as organisational acronyms and sector-specific words like 'heritage.' The Heritage Blueprint Report (Young Scot and National Trust for Scotland, 2017) found that while 34% of young people were interested in 'history', only 16% had an interest in 'heritage'. You may consider replacing 'heritage' with 'history', 'culture,' 'buildings,' 'places,' 'collections,' 'stories' and other words as appropriate.

Materials in different languages

Many potential volunteers might not have English as a first language or might not be confident in their English language skills. To encourage people from these communities to apply, you could have a few key phrases or materials translated into different languages.

Deciding what languages to offer materials in can be tricky, as demographic data often groups many ethnicities with different cultures and languages together. To help you map the languages spoken by people in your area, you could:

Alternative formats

In addition to offering materials in different languages, offering other alternative formats can make your volunteer programme more accessible for people with learning, hearing or visual disabilities. You could create:

Easy read versions, which break down complex information into shorter text and support the meaning of the text with the use of simple images or icons. Easy read versions are accessible to people with a learning disability and can also be accessible to those whose first language is not English or who have a lower reading level.

Large print versions, which are generally 16 to 18 point font size.

Braille versions. There are around 12,000 Braille users in the UK, and a few English Braille codes currently in use. If you choose to create Braille materials for audiences, you can post these materials for free via the Royal Mail under the Articles for the Blind scheme.

Video versions. Short videos (under 2 minutes) which can easily be shared across social media may help to reach new groups and communities. Where possible, having the video in 2-3 major languages spoken in Scotland will help to increase reach. Ensure to caption videos to increase accessibility, and double check that any auto-generated captions are accurate.

Audio versions. Community radio stations continue to be a vital source of connection for many groups. Consider short ads or features on local community radio stations.

British Sign Language (BSL) versions. 1 in 6 of the UK population experience deafness. Engaging with organisations such as Contact Scotland BSL will help to ensure your organisation is confident in supporting a broader range of volunteers.

Supporting Volunteers

Once volunteers are recruited, it is essential that volunteer organisers take steps to support them and ensure that they have a positive experience. Volunteer organisers should consider:

Creating a clear induction process. This should include a volunteer agreement and an introduction to policies (see section 4).

Identifying a clear point of contact and communication. This will ensure that volunteers know who they can contact with questions and concerns.

Organising regular check-ins. This will provide volunteers with opportunities to discuss the experience and how it could grow and/or be improved.

Hosting annual surveys, exit surveys and focus groups. This will capture honest reflections and responses from volunteers about their experiences.

Providing information on skills development and employment support. This will ensure that volunteering is mutually beneficial for the organisation and volunteer, and may include developing training pathways and shadowing opportunities, offering feedback on CVs, hosting mock interviews and providing references.

Thanking volunteers and recognising their efforts. This will ensure that volunteers feel valued for their contributions. Volunteer Scotland provides guidance on recognising and valuing your volunteers.

Budgeting for inclusion

Many people face economic barriers to volunteering, including travel expenses, childcare costs, food costs and a lack of free time. At a minimum, volunteer-involving organisations should pay travel costs for volunteers.

When applying for funding, volunteer organisers should budget for these factors to enable more people to volunteer. Below is a sample budget for costs associated with an inclusive volunteer programme. Volunteer Scotland has also produced additional guidance on supporting volunteers during the cost of living crisis.

Budget 1: Travel costs

Bus

Return or all day bus ticket, up to £5

Taxi

approximately £50 / return trip

1 As per rates from HMRC.

Budget 2: Childcare costs

Organise a mobile crèche

Get a quote from Flexible Childcare Services Scotland.

Support volunteers to access early years and childcare support

The Scottish Government offers a range of support for early years and childcare. Helping volunteers access this support could be an in-kind contribution from staff.

Develop family volunteering opportunities

In-kind contribution from staff

Budget 3: Disclosure costs

Budget 4: Food costs

1 As per rates from HMRC.

Budget 5: Thanking volunteer for their time

Review volunteers' CVs & host practice interviews

In-kind contribution from staff

Organise shadowing experiences

In-kind contribution from staff

Annual thank you event

£15 - £30 / volunteer. Volunteer organisers could organise catering and celebrate with volunteers on-site, or partner with another organisation to organise a volunteer day out.

Budget 6: Communication costs

British Sign Language Interpreters

£90/hour, £130/half day, £250/full day ( Nubsli, 2023)

Language Interpreters

£35/hour.

Inclusion checklist

Please use this checklist to understand the barriers to inclusion in your organisation. This can be used to develop an inclusive volunteering plan (see Section 7). Which of the below practices and facilities can your organisation offer to volunteers?

1. Economic

2. Social & Cultural

3a. Physical: Entering and Accessing Venues and Sites

3b. Physical: Engaging at Venues and Sites

If you want more detailed feedback on the accessibility of your volunteer programme, you can partner with a local organisation that engages with marginalised people to arrange an accessibility audit with their members. This may consist of their members visiting your venue, reviewing policies or role descriptions and/or participating in a volunteer taster session and giving you feedback on how to be more accessible or inclusive.

Consider contacting potential partner organisations for quotes and developing a budget for this type of expert work.

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Make Your Mark: Volunteering Toolkit (Main)

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A digital quick reference for the Make Your Mark Volunteer Toolkit and Research Report.

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Welcoming volunteers who are seeking sanctuary documents and links

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Welcoming volunteers who are seeking sanctuary documents and links

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Here are the documents and links I was asked to share from the session earlier. Including a few links I shared in the chat.

YouTube videos
Who is an Asylum Seeker?
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=E1E_tiagn8Q

Who is a Refugee?
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GvzZGplGbL8

Volunteering section in the gov.uk guide
https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/handling-applications-for-permission-to-take-employment-instruction/permission-to-work-and-volunteering-for-asylum-seekers-accessible#volunteering

The Pembrokeshire Community Hub can be reached by telephoning 01437 723660, by emailing enquiries@pembrokeshirecommunityhub.org or by messaging on Facebook, Twitter or Instagram – search @PembsHub

Free training https://www.pavs.org.uk/about-us/training-events/

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How can we make volunteering more inclusive for disabled people?

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How can we make volunteering more inclusive for disabled people?

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We know that volunteering carries huge benefits for those who take part. It can give individuals the chance to contribute to their community and make a difference to the causes that are meaningful to them.

In our Time Well Spent research, 75% of respondents reported that volunteering directly improved their mental health and wellbeing.

But not everyone is able to participate equally. We know that disabled people have a different experience of volunteering to non-disabled people.

On average they report lower levels of satisfaction and significant barriers. These include practical barriers, as well as cultural and attitudinal barriers. Barriers come from the public, organisations, paid staff, and other volunteers.

So, how can your organisation make volunteering inclusive for disabled people?

Here are some of our top tips.

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As well as her role at NCVO, Helen Tourle is also a trustee of a volunteer-led grassroots disability organisation.

We know that volunteering carries huge benefits for those who take part. It can give individuals the chance to contribute to their community and make a difference to the causes that are meaningful to them.

In our Time Well Spent research, 75% of respondents reported that volunteering directly improved their mental health and wellbeing.

But not everyone is able to participate equally. We know that disabled people have a different experience of volunteering to non-disabled people.

On average they report lower levels of satisfaction and significant barriers. These include practical barriers, as well as cultural and attitudinal barriers. Barriers come from the public, organisations, paid staff, and other volunteers.

So, how can your organisation make volunteering inclusive for disabled people?

Here are some of our top tips.

Do you have disability-inclusive training for staff and volunteers in your organisation? Building confidence and knowledge about disability is key to understanding and addressing the barriers disabled volunteers face. You could approach local organisations with expertise to see how you could share mutual training and learning.

Focus on the support and adjustments that volunteers need rather than their impairment or health condition. Regularly ask your volunteers about their needs and attempt to understand potential barriers. Make sure you're realistic and transparent.

Take a look at the culture in your organisation as well as your communications. Look out for stereotypes, stigma and unconscious bias about disabled people and address any concerns head on.

Consider how you could make your volunteer processes more accessible.

Nobody is expected to be an expert in all needs and adjustments, so ask for advice. Who are the national or local organisations working with disabled people who could offer advice?

Have you considered how disabled volunteers might experience your recruitment process? Use a range of recruitment methods, offer multiple methods of communication and provide different formats for recruitment resources.

Make sure you understand and can explain how volunteering could affect benefits claims. This may be a question some disabled people have. Read our guidance on volunteers who can claim benefits.

Flexible volunteering can be especially important for disabled volunteers.

Flexibility helps create an environment where people feel able to disclose their support needs. It can also allow individuals to volunteer when and where they're able to.

Can you identify activities that could be done as a pair or a group? This could help disabled people carry out volunteering with additional support if they need it.

Can you offer any of your volunteering opportunities remotely? Technology can be an enabler and a leveller for disabled volunteers. It allows disabled people to volunteer in a way and at a time that suits their needs.

Take time in your volunteer recruitment and management to understand volunteers' motivations. This can help you provide volunteering opportunities which meet their aspirations. For example, volunteers might want to:

increase their skills for employment

enhance their knowledge of a particular interest

enable more social connections.

Our Time Well Spent research shows many disabled volunteers don't feel their skills and knowledge are utilised. Consider how you enquire about and record the skills, interests, and abilities of volunteers. This will help you to match volunteer activities and enable people to play to their strengths.

Be mindful not to view disabled people only through the lens of their disability. Disability is not one dimensional and not everyone with support and access needs will identify as a disabled person. Be considerate of how the person can contribute through their skills and interests.

We hope this has been helpful. If you need any support or advice on making your organisation more inclusive for disabled volunteers, please get in touch with our consultancy team: consultancy@ncvo.org.uk.

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How can we make volunteering more inclusive for disabled people?

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Top tips on how charities and voluntary organisations can make it easier for disabled people to volunteer

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October PVON meeting - focus on Volunteering for those seeking sanctuary

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October PVON meeting - focus on Volunteering for those seeking sanctuary

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In this meeting our Guest Speaker will be Julia Manser, from SCVS*. Julia will deliver a short session on welcoming volunteers to your organisation who are seeking sanctuary (asylum seekers or refugees). Julia will share her knowledge, do some 'myth busting' and talk best practice. There will also be time to ask questions.

We will also have a chance to finalise plans for the Volunteer Fair at Pembrokeshire College on 17th October.

There will also be time to share what you are doing, anything in particular you would like to highlight - or ask about and network with colleagues from other organisations.

* SCVS (Swansea Council for Voluntary Service) hosts the ‘Better Welcome to Swansea’ project. Which helps to welcome and support people seeking asylum and refuge in Swansea to reduce isolation, encourage active participation, promote well being and enhance integration.

Book your place on Eventbrite (link above)

The project is a partnership between Swansea City of Sanctuary and SCVS.

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In this meeting our Guest Speaker will be Julia Manser, from SCVS*. Julia will deliver a short session on welcoming volunteers to your organisation who are seeking sanctuary (asylum seekers or refugees). Julia will share her knowledge, do some 'myth busting' and talk best practice. There will also be time to ask questions.

We will also have a chance to finalise plans for the Volunteer Fair at Pembrokeshire College on 17th October.

There will also be time to share what you are doing, anything in particular you would like to highlight - or ask about and network with colleagues from other organisations.

*﻿SCVS (Swansea Council for Voluntary Service) hosts the 'Better Welcome to Swansea' project. Which helps to welcome and support people seeking asylum and refuge in Swansea to reduce isolation, encourage active participation, promote well being and enhance integration.

The project is a partnership between Swansea City of Sanctuary and SCVS.

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october pvon meeting -  focus on volunteering for those seeking sanctuary

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october pvon meeting -  focus on volunteering for those seeking sanctuary tickets

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October PVON meeting - focus on Volunteering for those seeking sanctuary

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Eventbrite - Louise Wilkinson presents October PVON meeting - focus on Volunteering for those seeking sanctuary - Wednesday, 11 October 2023 - Find event and ticket information.

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Including:
- Stand booking link for Volunteering Fair at Pembrokeshire College on 18 October.
- Information about face-to-face managing Volunteers Course (September)

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Putting the Pieces Together: A Volunteering Conference for Pembrokeshire, 25th June 2025

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Putting the Pieces Together: A Volunteering Conference for Pembrokeshire, 25th June 2025

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‘Putting the Pieces Together: A Volunteering Conference for Pembrokeshire’ 25th June 2025 (at Queens Hall in Narberth from 10am for a 10.20am start)

Join us at to look at the volunteer recruitment puzzle and find some collaborative solutions.
During the day we will hear from guest speakers on topics such as:
Youth Volunteering - Emily Morgan
Making Volunteering more accessible - Dr Helen Timbrell
A volunteer training ‘passport’ for Pembrokeshire
And the launch of the Volunteering for Pembrokeshire Strategy with guest speaker – Rob Jackson Consulting Ltd

Presentations available in the next column ->

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Are your adverts on Volunteering Wales getting noticed?

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Are your adverts on Volunteering Wales getting noticed?

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We know that it can be difficult to recruit volunteers at the moment, but did you know there are a few hints and tips that can help potential volunteers find your advert on Volunteering Wales?

The attached photo will hopefully give you a few ideas but we also need to think flexibly and creatively when advertising roles.

If you are interested in a 1-2-1 session to get more out of the Volunteering Wales website, and your adverts, please contact louise.wilkinson@pavs.org.uk

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PVON meeting 14th June - Youth Volunteering Presentation

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PVON meeting 14th June - Youth Volunteering Presentation

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In this meeting our Guest Speaker was Callum Jones, from CAVO, who delivered a short session on Youth Volunteering and widening opportunities to encourage more young people to volunteer.

His slides are attached and meeting notes are to follow.

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New Time Well Spent data reveals how much volunteering has transformed over recent years.

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Over the past four years the world has seen unprecedented change. While in many ways people have returned to a pre-pandemic life, the repercussions of lockdown continue to impact communities.

The cost of living crisis and external events like the Russian invasion of Ukraine have added to these issues. We've seen widening inequalities and deepening societal need for some of the most marginalised groups.

What does this mean for volunteering? Here we offer a preview of our ground-breaking Time Well Spent 2023 report, which reveals how much volunteering has transformed over recent years.

About Time Well Spent

Time Well Spent is NCVO's research programme focusing on volunteers and their experience.

In 2018 we conducted a national survey of over 10,000 members of the UK general public. The survey was conducted through YouGov and explored:

volunteer participation

motivations and barriers to volunteering

the quality of volunteers' experiences

the impact of volunteering.

At the end of 2022 we ran this survey again with 7,000 members of the public. We analysed the data and compared it to what we observed in 2018.

Here are some of our key findings so far.

Volunteer participation - signs of decline?

The impact of the ongoing crises can be clearly seen in recent data.

The latest Community Life Survey found the proportion of the UK population who had volunteered at least once a month in 2021/22 was 16%. This was down from about 23% in 2019/20, reflecting the impact of the covid-19 pandemic. Volunteer participation has not fully recovered since then.

While it's difficult to compare an overall level, our survey data saw a drop in some key volunteering activities, reflecting the impact of the pandemic on certain volunteering activities.

Those raising money or taking part in sponsored events (down from 11% to 6%).

Those organising or helping to run an activity (down from 14% to 7%).

Those campaigning on behalf of the group, club or organisation (down from 8% to 4%).

Additionally, among recent volunteers, the overall likelihood to continue volunteering declined slightly from 80% in 2018 to 77% in 2022.

Most people said less time due to changes in circumstances is the main reason they're stopping. Being unhappy with the way their volunteering group is managed and organised is much less common (10%).

This data suggests we need more focus on retaining volunteers, as well as recruiting them.

Volunteer satisfaction is lower

The vast majority of volunteers have a positive experience.

Among those who had volunteered in the last 12 months through a group, club or organisation (focusing on the one they gave the most help to), 92% say that they are either very or fairly satisfied with their experience.

They also report a range of positive impacts on their lives.

However, compared to the previous data, overall satisfaction levels have decreased slightly. In 2018, 96% of volunteers said they were very or fairly satisfied with their experience.

Our analysis suggests several contributing factors.

Volunteers are now more likely to think their volunteering is becoming too much like paid work (up from 19% in 2018 to 26% in 2022).

More volunteers felt their volunteering group or organisation had unreasonable expectations of how much they did (17% in 2018 compared to 24% in 2022).

There was an increase in public sector volunteers since 2018, who are less likely to be satisfied with their experience compared with third sector volunteers (87% very or fairly satisfied vs 94%).

There are still challenges around equity, diversity and inclusion

Since 2020, the voluntary sector has been working to improve diversity issues in its workforce. However, our data shows equity, diversity and inclusion continue to be a challenge in volunteering.

Fewer volunteers say that their volunteering group is diverse. In 2018, 73% of volunteers said there were people from a wide range of backgrounds and cultures in their group. In 2022 this has dropped to 66%. We'll share further analysis of the experience of black, Asian and minority ethnic groups in the coming months.

As in 2018, younger volunteers in our new data continue to be less satisfied overall. 82% of 18-24-year-olds said they're satisfied compared with 96% of those aged 55+.

It's not enough just to improve overall volunteer participation. This data highlights volunteering opportunities also need to be inclusive and meet the needs of a diverse range of people.

Virtual volunteering is here to stay

Technology has played an increasingly important role in volunteering since 2020. Volunteering online or over the phone is now the third most common place to volunteer. 31% of those who volunteered in the last 12 months did at least some of it online or over the phone.

In 2022, we see remote volunteering hasn't impacted volunteer satisfaction. Volunteer satisfaction is equal among those who did their volunteering only by phone or online and those who didn't do any volunteering in these ways (both 92% satisfied).

During covid, organisations quickly adapted to make sure virtual volunteering was safe and rewarding. These results are testament to their hard work.

Volunteering motivations haven't changed

In both 2018 and 2022 we found the top motivation for volunteering was wanting to improve things or help people. Recent volunteers also say making a difference is the key reason they're likely to continue.

It's important to remember this core motivation when recruiting volunteers. That, and simply asking the question. Around 1 in 5 (19%) people who hadn't volunteered in the last 12 months said it was because they've never been asked.

Practical barriers need to be addressed

The practical aspects of volunteering shouldn't be underestimated. This is especially true given the cost of living crisis and changing expectations around flexibility.

The issue of expenses is particularly notable.

14% of those who haven't volunteered through a group, club or organisation in the last 12 months are worried about out-of-pocket expenses (up from 9% in 2018). This figure was higher among 18-24-year-olds (20%).

Only 55% of volunteers say their volunteer group, club or organisation would reimburse their expenses if they wanted them to. 16% don't know if they would.

This indicates organisations need to do more to ease concerns about volunteering expenses, particularly if they want to attract younger volunteers.

As well as the financial impact of volunteering, time is also an important factor. Among those who had considered volunteering in the last 12 months, the most common barriers were:

thinking it involved more time than they could commit (21%)

it wasn't flexible (14%)

the opportunities didn't matching their skills, interests or experience (14%).

However, experiences of flexible volunteering are largely positive. For example, 82% of those who do volunteer report their organisation is flexible with the time given.

Offering more flexible volunteering opportunities, such as virtual volunteering, could help attract new volunteers. For those already volunteering, continued support will be key, particularly given the burnout and fatigue seen during the pandemic.

Volunteer-involving organisations have adapted significantly to the profound changes in our society over the last few years. This latest data shows there is so much to celebrate, and even more to continue working on.

Making volunteering more accessible is a core objective of Vision for Volunteering - an exciting new project we're working on with a range of partners.

Sarah Vibert, chief executive of NCVO, said:

"The data shows the impact of covid on volunteering has been profound. People who were lifelong volunteers broke their habit during the pandemic and haven't yet got back to it. Given how important volunteering is to our social fabric - and how much people get out of it - we need an urgent focus on helping people find opportunities that suit them.

"There are also positives with high levels of satisfaction among volunteers. This is a testament to the hard work of volunteer-involving organisations. Many have had to adapt their volunteering opportunities over the last few years to respond to social distancing measures as well as new need in communities."

The full Time Well Spent report with more detail on these findings will be launched in June.
Book your place at our launch event on 27 June
Notes:

All figures, unless otherwise stated, are from YouGov Plc. The survey was carried out online. The figures have been weighted and are representative of all GB adults (aged 18+). The figures presented from the online survey have been analysed independently by NCVO.

2018 survey: Total sample size was 10,103 adults. Fieldwork was undertaken between 4 May and 15 May 2018. 2022 survey: Total sample size was 7,006 adults. Fieldwork was undertaken between 23 November and 6 December 2022.

It should be noted that while we have sought to replicate the methodology and sample, it is only possible to draw reasonable comparisons between the two because of methodological and sample limitations. In particular. relating to the participation data.

Whilst 'volunteering' is used throughout the report, in the survey respondents were not asked if they had volunteered. Instead, they were asked about whether they had given unpaid help to anyone who is not a relative, and if so whether through a group, club or organisation.

The 2023 Time Well Spent research has been part-funded by the Department for Culture, Media, and Sport.

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New data reveals how much volunteering has transformed over recent years

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Stop It Now! Wales Public Education Sessions

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Stop It Now! Wales Public Education Sessions

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PAVS are working with Stop It Now! And the The Lucy Faithfull Foundation, the only UK-wide charity dedicated solely to preventing child sexual abuse, to deliver a suite of training programmes aimed at practitioners, volunteers, parents, and carers.

The training sessions are fully funded by Welsh Government, you are free to book as many or as few of the sessions as you like.

See the attached programme for the sessions and the booking links.

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PVON Lunch and Learn - Social Media for Volunteering 25 April slides

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PVON Lunch and Learn - Social Media for Volunteering 25 April slides

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Jon the DigiCoach delivered a short ‘lunch and learn’ session He gave an overview on some of the main social media platforms (what they do, and who uses them), and then took questions . This was a great opportunity to think about who you might want to reach via social media and the best platform/s for you to use.

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Date of the next PVON meeting 29th March

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Date of the next PVON meeting 29th March

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Please book your place on eventbrite, link above.

In this meeting our Guest Speaker will be Lee Hind, Pembrokeshire Community Hub Manager, who will talk about a Pembrokeshire-wide campaign to promote volunteering throughout the year. He will let you know how you can get involved, and maybe even be part of a radio campaign.

We will also have a chance to discuss the ‘The Big Help Out’ in May https://thebighelpout.org.uk/ and plans for Volunteers’ Week (1-7 June)

Training will also be on the agenda, including plans for sessions on social media (for promoting volunteering) and supporting your volunteers with mental health

We will also have time to share what you are doing, anything in particular you would like to highlight/ ask and network.

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March PVON meeting - training, marketing and networking

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Eventbrite - Louise Wilkinson presents March PVON meeting - training, marketing and networking - Wednesday, 29 March 2023 - Find event and ticket information.

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Useful links - Understanding and engaging 21st century volunteers 

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Useful links - Understanding and engaging 21st century volunteers 

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Links that were included in the chat or discussed at the event.
Handouts provided by Rob are available here https://www.dropbox.com/s/o3ln57s0kav9eew/2023-01-18%20PAVS%20slidedeck%20HANDOUT.pdf?dl=0

The Voluntary Sector Data Hub (WCVA) statistical information about third sector activities, including numbers of organisations, sector income, volunteering hours, areas of work, where groups are located and more. https://wcva.cymru/the-voluntary-sector-in-wales/

Community Life Survey 2020/21 https://www.gov.uk/government/statistics/community-life-survey-202021

TIME WELL SPENT: A NATIONAL SURVEY ON THE VOLUNTEER EXPERIENCE https://www.ncvo.org.uk/news-and-insights/news-index/time-well-spent-national-survey-volunteer-experience/#/

Cost of Living Crisis: The Hard Facts https://www.volunteerscotland.net/cost-of-living-crisis-the-hard-facts/  https://www.volunteerscotland.net/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/Testing-our-Resilience-The-impact-of-the-cost-of-living-crisis-on-volunteering-and-volunteers.pdf

Research report on Volunteer Passports Publication of a DCMS-commissioned research report on volunteer passports https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/research-report-on-volunteer-passports

Why Invest in Volunteer Engagement? (Funders report) https://www.leightyfoundation.org/volunteer-engagement/invest-volunteer-engagement/

Getting in touch with Rob rob@robjacksonconsulting.com +44 (0)7557 419 074 https://linktr.ee/robjconsulting http://robjacksonconsulting.com/

Getting in touch with us If you have any questions/ queries or you are not already a member of your local Volunteer Organisers Network, or cover more than one county, and are interested in joining in please contact us directly. ·        Ceredigion (CAVO) 01570 423 232 / infovb@cavo.org.uk
Carmarthenshire (CAVS) 01267245555 / volunteering@cavs.org.uk
Pembrokeshire (PAVS) 01437 769422 / volunteering@pavs.org.uk

Free training / resources  As suggested by one PVON member – this session is free but you may be asked to complete some feedback on the session https://www.bl.uk/events/webinar-reset-restart-making-your-social-media-marketing-pay-24-january-2023

CAVS online learning portal (free online courses no need for email/ login)  Managing Volunteers You might be interested in this free online course, developed by CAVS. Which takes you through all the elements of Volunteer Management from getting started to more complex volunteer management issues. You don’t need a login and can dip in and out as you please. Modules take between 30-45 minutes. https://cavs.org.uk/learning/learning-portal/managing-volunteers/

There are also short courses for volunteers There are 5 short modules on the website specifically for volunteers, including ‘confidence’, ‘confidentiality’ and ‘staying safe’ https://cavs.org.uk/learning/learning-portal/

Third Sector Support Wales Knowledge Hub (short courses and information sheets on a range of topics) Anyone new to supervising/ managing volunteers might be interested in these free courses (they will need an email address and password to register and login):
Understanding Volunteering Management and Support for Volunteering Recognising Volunteers and Measuring Impact Involving Young People.

There are many more courses on the site, including Safeguarding as well as lots of information sheets on a variety of topics. Courses here https://thirdsectorsupport.wales/our-courses/ Information sheets here https://thirdsectorsupport.wales/our-resources/volunteering/

Also some great resources on this site (no login needed) including a Policies and Procedures Checklist for Volunteer involving organisations and a Volunteer Co-ordinator Guide Toolkit https://www.westglamorgan.org.uk/stabilisation-and-reconstruction/prevention-and-community-coordination/wgvs/

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This is a one-off event bringing together members of the Ceredigion, Carmarthenshire and Pembrokeshire Volunteer Organisers' Networks (CVON, CVON, PVON) to hear from Rob Jackson* on the current changes and challenges we are facing in volunteering.

This session will look at some of the key ways in which society is changing and how these changes affect volunteers and volunteering. We will also discuss what leaders of volunteers can do to update their practices to accommodate these changes, further enhancing their engagement and retention of 21st century volunteers.

The session will cover:

Key trends in volunteering - the generational difference in volunteers and how people spend their time.

There will also be time for a Q&A session with Rob and then time for further discussions and networking in C/C/P/VON groups.

*Rob Jackson is Director of Rob Jackson Consulting Ltd, a consultancy and training company that helps engage and inspire people to bring about change.

Rob has almost 30 years' experience working in the voluntary and community sector, holding a variety of strategic development and senior management roles that have focused on leading and engaging volunteers.

Rob is co-author of The Complete Volunteer Management Handbook (DSC, 2012 and 2019) and From The Top Down - UK Edition (Energize Inc., 2015).

You will need to book your place here, please note that priority will be given to C/C/P/VON members.

If for any reason you are unable to attend, please let us know as soon as possible as places are limited.

For more information, or for help with booking, contact:

Ceredigion Volunteer Organisers' Network (CVON) Trish Lewis, 01570 423 232/ trish.lewis@cavo.org.uk

Pembrokeshire Volunteer Organisers' Network (PVON) Louise Wilkinson, 01437 769422 / louise.wilkinson@pavs.org.uk

R﻿ob will deliver his session through the medium of English.

Book your place here - you will receive the zoom link closer to the time.

Dyddiad cadw! 18 Ionawr 10am-1pm (Ar lein - Zoom)Deall ac ymgysylltu â gwirfoddolwyr yr 21ain ganrif

Digwyddiad untro yw hwn sy'n dod ag aelodau o Rwydweithiau Trefnwyr Gwirfoddolwyr Ceredigion, Sir Gaerfyrddin a Sir Benfro (CVON, CVON, PVON) ynghyd i glywed Rob Jackson* ar y newidiadau a'r heriau presennol sy'n ein hwynebu ym maes gwirfoddoli.

Bydd y sesiwn hon yn edrych ar rai o'r ffyrdd allweddol y mae cymdeithas yn newid a sut mae'r newidiadau hyn yn effeithio ar wirfoddolwyr a gwirfoddoli. Byddwn hefyd yn trafod yr hyn y gall cydlynnwyr gwirfoddolwyr ei wneud i ddiweddaru eu harferion i ddarparu ar gyfer y newidiadau hyn, gan wella ymhellach eu hymgysylltiad a chadw gwirfoddolwyr yr 21ain ganrif.

Bydd y sesiwn yn ymdrin â:· Tueddiadau allweddol mewn gwirfoddoli - y gwahaniaeth rhwng cenedlaethau mewn gwirfoddolwyr a sut mae pobl yn treulio eu hamser.· Bydd hefyd amser ar gyfer sesiwn Holi ac Ateb gyda Rob ac yna amser ar gyfer trafodaethau pellach a rhwydweithio mewn grwpiau C/C/P/VON.

*Rob Jackson yw Cyfarwyddwr Rob Jackson Consulting Ltd, cwmni ymgynghori a hyfforddi sy'n helpu i ymgysylltu ac ysbrydoli pobl i sicrhau newid.

Mae gan Rob bron i 30 mlynedd o brofiad yn gweithio yn y sector gwirfoddol a chymunedol, mae ganddo amrywiaeth o brofiad o fewn rolau datblygu strategol ac uwch reoli sydd wedi canolbwyntio ar arwain ac ymgysylltu â gwirfoddolwyr.

Mae Rob yn gyd-awdur 'The Complete Volunteer Management Handbook' (DSC, 2012 a 2019) ac 'From The Top Down' - Rhifyn y DU (Energize Inc., 2015).

Bydd angen i chi bwcio eich lle ar Eventbrite yma sylwch y rhoddir blaenoriaeth i aelodau rhwydwaithiau gwirfoddol lleol - Ceredigion, Sir Benfro a Sir Gậr.

Os nad ydych yn gallu mynychu am unrhyw reswm, rhowch wybod i ni cyn gynted â phosibl gan fod lleoedd yn gyfyngedig.

Am ragor o wybodaeth, neu am help i archebu, cysylltwch â:

Ceredigion Volunteer Organisers' Network (CVON) Trish Lewis, 01570 423 232/ trish.lewis@cavo.org.uk

Pembrokeshire Volunteer Organisers' Network (PVON) Louise Wilkinson, 01437 769422 / louise.wilkinson@pavs.org.uk

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understanding and engaging 21st century volunteers

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understanding and engaging 21st century volunteers tickets

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Understanding and engaging 21st century volunteers

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This is a one-off event bringing together members of the Ceredigion, Carmarthenshire and Pembrokeshire Volunteer Organisers' Networks (CVON, CVON, PVON) to hear from Rob Jackson* on the current changes and challenges we are facing in volunteering. This session will look at some of the key ways in which society is changing and how these changes affect volunteers and volunteering.

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Guide to recruiting and supporting helpers / informal volunteers for Warm Spaces

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Guide to recruiting and supporting helpers / informal volunteers for Warm Spaces

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This is a basic guide to give you a few ideas and tips to help you recruit and support helpers for your Warm Space. There are lots of links to information sheets, training and other guides.

At the end of this guide are some template documents which you might find useful, kindly shared (with permission) from Warm Welcome UK

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Guide to recruiting and supporting warm room volunteers

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Introducing PAVS’ Funding Advice Service Padlet

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Introducing PAVS’ Funding Advice Service Padlet

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Check back for updates on Funding Sources, Funding Deadlines, Events & more!

Link here; https://padlet.com/lornalivock/FundingPembs

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Keep Warm, Keep Well in Pembrokeshire - UPDATE

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Keep Warm, Keep Well in Pembrokeshire - UPDATE

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Keep Warm, Keep Well in Pembrokeshire

Keep Warm Keep Well is a new campaign to support people across Pembrokeshire during the cost of living crisis.

The campaign is being led by the Pembrokeshire Community Hub in partnership with Pembrokeshire County Council, Pembrokeshire Association of Voluntary Services and a variety of agencies including Hywel Dda Health Board, Emergency Services and the Voluntary Sector.

The cost of living crisis affects everyone and it is a worrying and uncertain time for so many people. Therefore, work is taking place to connect people to local information, support and services over the coldest months of the year.

Across Pembrokeshire we are already seeing communities and organisations doing a fantastic job at responding to the crisis offering a range of local solutions including Warm Welcome Community Spaces, hot meals, community activities, plus energy, money and debt advice.

Anyone experiencing financial hardship or who would like information about what support is available in their area, can contact the Pembrokeshire Community Hub on 01437 723660 or email enquiries@pembrokeshirecommunityhub.org

The Pembrokeshire Community Hub has also created an online one-stop-shop on the Connect Pembrokeshire website https://connectpembrokeshire.org.uk/which has lots of useful information and an interactive map of Warm Welcome Community Spaces across the county.

Warm Welcome Community Spaces offer welcoming places where people can meet with others in their local community and take part in a range of activities. There may also be information and advice on offer from a range of community organisations. Have a look on the map for your nearest warm room or give the Hub a call.

Winter Warm Packs are also available. Each pack contains a range of items to help people living in cold conditions in Pembrokeshire to keep warm. Referrals for a warm pack can be made by completing a referral form (attached) or by contacting the Pembrokeshire Community Hub on 01437 723660. Self-referrals are welcomed.

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Recruiting & welcoming volunteers – are we still getting it right?

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Recruiting & welcoming volunteers – are we still getting it right?

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Flik, Volunteering Manager at WCVA reflects on insights from volunteering leads across Wales on the topic of volunteer recruitment, specifically welcoming new volunteers.

In this blog I’ll be focusing on the fundamentals of welcoming volunteers post pandemic.

Through reflections with voluntary sector colleagues across Wales, we have learnt that:

1. People who have been volunteering during the pandemic have been experiencing burnout

2. The rise in digital volunteering has made volunteering more accessible for some and less accessible for others

3. Volunteering has provided people with a sense of wellbeing and connection

4. That we can do things differently (and hopefully better)

5. That informal and more flexible approaches are attractive to people that want to volunteer

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Recruiting & welcoming volunteers - are we still getting it right? - WCVA

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In this blog I'll be focusing on the fundamentals of welcoming volunteers post pandemic.

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TIME WELL SPENT: IMPACT OF COVID-19 ON THE VOLUNTEER EXPERIENCE

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TIME WELL SPENT: IMPACT OF COVID-19 ON THE VOLUNTEER EXPERIENCE

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Time Well Spent is an NCVO research programme which focuses on the volunteer experience. It aims to provide rich, practical insight that will inform debate within the sector and strengthen the impact of volunteering.

This report ends with recommendations for volunteer-involving organisations on how to capitalise on these learnings, as well as how to restore and support volunteer wellbeing.

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Time well spent: impact of covid-19 on the volunteer experience

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It aims to explore the wider impact of the pandemic on volunteers through summarising existing literature and conducting research with both volunteer managers and volunteers about their experience. Focusing on the motivations for and barriers to volunteering, the report also aims to inform policy and practice in this area.

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This meeting will focus on planning for Volunteers Week 2022 (1-7 June) and other updates, however during the second part of the meeting we will be joined by Siwan who would like to chat to you about some of the topics detailed below. Siwan is working in only 3 areas of Wales (one is Pembrokeshire) so this is a great opportunity. Siwan's email address is included below if you would like to contact her directly.

Focus Group – Welsh Language and Volunteering 2022

Do you have volunteers who speak Welsh?

Could your organisation benefit from recruiting Welsh speaking volunteers?

Would you like advice on recruiting Welsh speaking volunteers?

Are you successful in recruiting Welsh speaking volunteers and are able to share good practice?

Come to a discussion with us. We are creating a Welsh Language and Volunteering 2022 Framework and we want to hear your ideas and your opinions.

To find out more about this work, please contact Siwan at siwan.tomos@iaith.cymru

Volunteering For Pembrokeshire is inviting you to a scheduled Zoom meeting.

Topic: Pembrokeshire Volunteer Organiser's Network Meeting
Time: This is a recurring meeting Meet anytime

Join Zoom Meeting
https://us06web.zoom.us/j/96128850614?pwd=RzdGZlp2TlBsY0NnM0trSVkxRkMxdz09

Meeting ID: 961 2885 0614
Passcode: 995151

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On offer from PAVS

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Stop It Now! Wales Public Education Sessions

Sessions running from April - October at 10:00am- 12:30pm

PAVS are working with Stop It Now! And the The Lucy Faithfull Foundation, the only UK-wide charity dedicated solely to preventing child sexual abuse, to deliver a suite of training programmes aimed at practitioners, volunteers, parents, and carers.

The training sessions are fully funded by Welsh Government. You are free to book as many or as little of the sessions as you like. Spaces are limited to 20 people per session. Please let PAVS/Eventbrite know if you need to cancel, as we anticipate demand to be high.

More information about Stop It Now! Can be found here: Stop It Now! UK and Ireland | Preventing child sexual abuse

* This programme will be useful to those working in statutory, voluntary, or independent sectors with children and/or families. This is an interactive workshop. Participation is encouraged.

An Introduction to Safeguarding

Wednesday, 13th September at 6pm

This session being delivered by Lee Hind from PAVS, will ensure that you have the knowledge, attitudes and skills essential for keeping the people you work with safe and protected from harm.
By the end of this course you will:

Understand the principles and values behind effective safeguarding

Know how to recognise different types of harm, abuse and neglect in children, young people and adults

Understand your own role in relation to safeguarding children, young people and adults

Understand the procedures and referral routes for protecting people at risk from harm, abuse and neglect

Be up-to-date with relevant policies on safeguarding
To book a place, click here
Online Learning Sessions

Hosted by PAVS and Facilitated by Digital Communities Wales
Please see the list of free sessions below. For more information click on the relevant links.

DBS Disclosure Workshop

Wednesday, 11th October at 10am

The first in a series of regional online Safeguarding events co-ordinated by PAVS, Carol Eland , the Regional Outreach Adviser (Wales) from the Disclosure & Barring Service will cover the following :

* Introduction to DBS

* Understand the benefits of DBS and you (organisation) working together

* Understand the different levels of DBS checks

* Understand when an employee is eligible for a check

* Understand what Regulated Activity is

* Understand the DBS Update Service

* Have an understanding of what safe recruitment practices can be in place that DBS checks can form a part of.

* Myth Busting Quiz

Followed by an opportunity to ask questions.

Digital Storytelling, In-Person Workshop

Tuesday, 10th October, 2pm at the Green Shed Café

R﻿eminiscing is a powerful tool for memory and well-being. Digital Storytelling allows people to create and share short videos on their devices: from a trip down memory land through to creating useful instructions for others to follow.

T﻿his session will:

G﻿ive an overview of why digital storytelling is useful and provide some key considerations to get you started.

T﻿ake you on a step-by-step guide to Digital Storytelling using the Adobe Spark Video on an Apple device.

Take you on a step-by-step guide to Digital Storytelling using the Cyberlink PowerDirector App on an Android device.

DBS Barring Workshop

Thursday, 26th October at 1.30pm

The second in a series of regional online Safeguarding events co-ordinated by PAVS, Carol Eland , the Regional Outreach Adviser (Wales) from the Disclosure & Barring Service will cover the following :

* Understand the benefits of DBS and you (employer) working together

* Understand the three different referral routes

* Understand when a DBS Barring referral should be made, including when the legal duty is met

* Understand Regulated Activity / Relevant Conduct and Harm Test

* Understand how to make a good quality referral

* Have a clear understanding of the consequences of not making appropriate barring referrals and the consequences of being included in one or both Barred Lists

* Myth Busting Quiz
Followed by an opportunity to ask questions.
Demystifying the Disclosure & Barring Service

Thursday, 9th November at 6pm

The third and final session of our series of regional online Safeguarding events co-ordinated by PAVS, Carol Eland , the Regional Outreach Adviser (Wales) from the Disclosure & Barring Service will cover the following :

o Introduction to DBS

o Understand the benefits of DBS and you (organisation) working together

o Myth Busting Quiz's

o Understanding DBS checks including Eligibility Criteria and Regulated Activity

o DBS Update Service

o Understand DBS Referrals

o Understand Legal Duty, Relevant Conduct and Harm

o How to make a good quality referral

o The consequences of not making a referral
Followed by an opportunity to ask questions.
If you have any questions about the training listed above, please email development@pavs.org.uk

Training & Events from other organisations

Ffynnone Resilience

Ffynnone Resilience put on courses, learning sessions and 'DIY days', providing the skills people want and need to enhance community spaces.
For details, see their website. Link here
How to contact us

See our list of staff contact details and make direct contact with the person you need.

Alternatively our office phone line is open between 10am and 2pm each day on 01437 769422

Our generic email is enquiries@pavs.org.uk

Registered Office: 36/38 High Street
Haverfordwest, Pembrokeshire SA61 2DA

Office Hours

Our staff are now working in a hybrid way which means they may not be in the office, but working from other venues or home working. Due to changes in the way we now work, we are not holding meetings or running training events in person from our premises. However, if you wish to meet with a member of staff then please email them directly or call their business mobile number. The staff contact list is kept up to date with the most recent information.

If you do need to call at our premises, we have an intercom system at our front entrance, so just ring the bell and wait to be answered by one of the team. From 9.00am to 5.00pm Monday to Thursday and 9.00am to 4.30pm on a Friday (except on Bank Holidays) there will be someone there who is able to answer you. If you are just delivering mail, then please use the letter box on the front door.

Thank you for your ongoing support.

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Training & Events | Pembrokeshire Association of Voluntary Services

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Training & Events offered by PAVS Stop It Now! Wales Public Education Sessions Sessions running from April - October at 10:00am- 12:30pm PAVS are workin ...

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Bookings for the Volunteering for Pembrokeshire bursary now open

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Bookings for the Volunteering for Pembrokeshire bursary now open

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Learning Pembrokeshire have informed me that bookings for courses for Autumn onwards are now live on their website. So if any of your volunteers want to access a course - for free (see below) now is a good time to get the bursary forms completed and sent over to us here at PAVS.

Eligible volunteers, living and volunteering in Pembrokeshire, may be entitled to apply for support to cover the costs of a Learning Pembrokeshire course and any examination fees (thanks to funding from the Welsh Government Coronavirus Recovery Grant for Volunteering 2020-21). The VfP Bursary – a partnership between PAVS (Pembrokeshire Association of Voluntary Services) and Learning Pembrokeshire - will give volunteers the chance to develop skills and knowledge that will help in their volunteering.

Learning Pembrokeshire provides a wide range of courses for over 16’s throughout Pembrokeshire. From Digital Skills, Essential Skills and ESOL to First Aid, Food Safety and many more. More details about Learning Pembrokeshire and a full list of courses can be found here https://www.pembrokeshire.gov.uk/adult-learning

‘This is a wonderful opportunity for Volunteers in Pembrokeshire to attend a course, and have the fees covered thanks to the bursary. We hope people will take this opportunity to improve their skills and knowledge in areas that will help them in their volunteering role. With so many courses on offer there is plenty to choose from.’ Said Louise Wilkinson, Volunteering Development Officer at PAVS.

Volunteers will need to complete a VfP Bursary form available from volunteering@pavs.org.uk / 01437 769422 and will need to speak to their Volunteer Manager/ Supervisor before applying. Other support may be available for those who are not eligible please contact Learning Pembrokeshire on 01437 770150

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More free places on Youth Mental Health First Aid!

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More free places on Youth Mental Health First Aid!

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Mental Health First Aid Training:

https://www.pointypt.org.uk/training/

You must be living and Volunteering (with young people) in Pembrokeshire to access one of these places for free - there are only 5 places available (maximum 2 per organisation). Volunteers must be 18+ to access this training.

Online-via 6 self directed learning modules with 2x Webinars (dates below) in between the online learning

Registration DEADLINE is 4th May

Webinars are 18th & 25th May 10am-12.30.

Learners can register here Online YMHFA registration

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Learning Pembs dates for 1st Aid (Bursary)

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Learning Pembs dates for 1st Aid (Bursary)

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See below (scroll down) for more information about the bursary. However Learning Pembrokeshire have asked me to let everyone know they have 2 more dates for
Emergency First Aid in the Workplace (Haverfordwest)
08/07/2022
Also Food Hygiene (Tenby) dates TBC

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CANCELLED new date TBC PVON volunteering and networking at Wolfscastle PLANT project

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CANCELLED new date TBC PVON volunteering and networking at Wolfscastle PLANT project

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Tuesday 15th March

1pm – 3pm

The PLANT project is planting a tree for every child born to a Pembrokeshire family. It is a partnership between Pembrokeshire County Council, Hywel Dda and Pembrokeshire Coast National Park. On 15th March volunteers from the National Park will be on site removing gorse from a scheduled monument at the site, and fitting tree mats to all the trees that have been planted this season.

The site is on farmland, with muddy, uneven ground.

You will need warm layers, waterproofs, sturdy shoes or boots

There are no toilets – other than hedges

Parking is limited – please share lifts if you can

The site is on the minor road between Wolfscastle and Hayscastle. The entrance to the site is directly opposite Bank Farm. Parking is limited along this road, but there is additional parking in Wolfscastle village if people want to meet up and share lifts.  Please DO NOT park in front of the farm house or other farm buildings.

If you would like to come along, please email Rebecca Evans:

rebeccae@pembrokeshirecoast.org.uk with your name, contact number and your role or organisation.

Please note – if the weather isn’t being kind we’ll contact you the day before to postpone.

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Lots of useful toolkits and information sheets

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Lots of useful toolkits and information sheets

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Including, developing flexible opportunities, diversifying your volunteer base, top tips for developing Welsh language volunteering and much more!

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The project partners are: West Glamorgan Volunteering Support (WGVS) is a multi-agency project creating shared resources to develop the knowledge, management and coordination of volunteers and volunteer involving organisations across the Swansea and Neath Port Talbot areas. It has been funded through the Welsh Government Volunteering Recovery Fund.

Neath Port Talbot County Borough Council

Neath Port Talbot Council for Voluntary Service

Swansea Bay University Health Board,

Swansea Council

Swansea Council for Voluntary Service, and

the West Glamorgan Regional Partnership.

Infosheets: Toolkits: Animated video: Descriptions of resources and intended audiences: WGVS Project Training Packs: As part of the WGVS Project, a suite of training materials have been developed for use by volunteer involving organisations as part of their induction of volunteers. The modules are designed to be flexible, allowing organisations to adapt and reference their own policies and procedures. The modules are intended to be interactive, enabling those attending to participate and for the facilitator to check understanding and learning through a range of methods. Each module can be used as a standalone module or alongside the other modules within the pack. Who are the training packs for? They've been developed to assist volunteer involving organisations with their induction of volunteers. The modules available so far are: Introduction to volunteering By the end of the session participants will be able to:
Downloadable copies of the WGVS resources can be found below:
Understanding the role of the volunteer This session will allow participants to:
What does the training pack include? The pack consists of 6 modules. Each module consists of a power point presentation, session plan, detailed trainer notes and activity pack.
Volunteering basics This session will allow participants to:

Describe what volunteering is and its value to society.

List the different types of volunteering opportunities and organisations.

Identify motivations to volunteer and the personal benefits to volunteering.

Communication skills This session will allow participants to:

List your rights as one of our volunteers and the ways you will be kept safe

Describe our volunteer role descriptions - why they are important and what each section means in relation to your role

Explain our record keeping requirements and why this is necessary

Identify how our volunteering roles fit into our organisation's operations and how everyone in (insert name of organisation) works together to achieve our organisational aims/goals.

Dealing with difficult situations This session will allow participants to:

Outline the importance of confidentiality and its boundaries

Describe boundaries and ground rules in relation to volunteering

Explain the term equality and the role we all play

Recognise and outline the importance of personal safety while volunteering.

Introduction to Safeguarding This session will allow participants to:

Consider and explain verbal and non-verbal communication

Identify and improve listening skills

List the barriers to effective communication

Develop active listening skills

Define the difference between sympathy and empathy

Explain five steps to better listening.

How to access the Training Packs: To request a free copy of the pack or packs, please contact*: * Please reference WGVS Project Training packs in your email subject.

Explain what is effective conflict management

Identify how to anticipate and avoid difficult situations

Describe how to calm a disagreement

List general advice to avoid problems

Outline volunteer's rights

Define the function and purpose of supervision and support.

Define Safeguarding and Abuse

Explain reporting and recording procedures for suspicions and allegations

Describe their own roles and responsibilities in Safeguarding.

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The project partners are: West Glamorgan Volunteering Support (WGVS) is a multi-agency project creating shared resources to develop the knowledge, management and coordination of volunteers and volunteer involving organisations across the Swansea and Neath Port Talbot areas. It has been funded through the Welsh Government Volunteering Recovery Fund.

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The next PVON meetings will be
26 April TBC 1.30pm onwards (Volunteers Week prep)

We will plan for zoom for now but may change to face to face as restrictions allow.

Guest speaker/ topics to be circulated before the meeting. If you have any suggestions please email volunteering@pavs.org.uk

Join Zoom Meeting
https://zoom.us/j/96128850614?pwd=RzdGZlp2TlBsY0NnM0trSVkxRkMxdz09

Meeting ID: 961 2885 0614
Passcode: 995151

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An update from Joey Ayris - Pembrokeshire County Council and their Employer Supported Volunteering Scheme (and how we might get new volunteers, or provide ‘team building’ volunteer activities).

Learning Pembrokeshire Bursary, brief update on courses (including First Aid) available for volunteers – for free

BBC 2 year anniversary of lockdown – a call for volunteer stories (relating to the pandemic) etc.

Forthcoming days/ events for promoting volunteering – not forgetting it will be Volunteers’ Week before we know it (1-7 June)

WEBruary (a regional campaign to get people online/ accessing online activities/ sessions) #chWEfror #WEBruary Creating connections for all.

Volunteering Wales website updates

Networking/ share your news/ new projects etc.

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How the Volunteer Centre at PAVS can help your organisation

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How the Volunteer Centre at PAVS can help your organisation

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Need a Volunteering Policy, templates and an idea of where to start to recruit and mange volunteers effectively, and safely?

The Volunteer Centre can help you!

We have template policies and documents available and can talk you through topics on volunteer recruitment and management - all based on best practice (and 20 years of experience).

You might also be interested in some great resources created by our colleagues in West Glamorgan...

https://www.westglamorgan.org.uk/stabilisation-and-reconstruction/prevention-and-community-coordination/wgvs/

Including a Policies and Procedures Checklist for Volunteer involving organisations and a Volunteer Co-ordinator Guide Toolkit

There is also a free online course, developed by our colleagues in Carmarthenshire. Which takes you through all the elements of Volunteer Management from getting started to more complex volunteer management issues. You don’t need a login and can dip in and out as you please, the first module is called ‘Preparing to involve volunteers’ the second is on the Volunteering Policy.

Modules take between 30-45 minutes.

https://cavs.org.uk/learning/learning-portal/managing-volunteers/

New Volunteer Managers/ Supervisors

Anyone new to supervising/ managing volunteers might be interested in these free courses (they will need an email address and password to register and login):

Understanding Volunteering

Management and Support for Volunteering

Recognising Volunteers and Measuring Impact

Involving Young People.

There are many more courses on the site, including Safeguarding as well as lots of information sheets on a variety of topics.

Courses here https://thirdsectorsupport.wales/our-courses/

Information sheets here https://thirdsectorsupport.wales/our-resources/volunteering/

Getting Volunteers

The Volunteer Centre, based at PAVS, can help with advertising for new volunteers via the Volunteering Wales website https://volunteering-wales.net/ (all organisations must have – as a minimum a Volunteering Policy and Insurance that covers volunteers). This is a searchable site that all Volunteer Centres in Wales use, as well as the general public (and our partners such as employability schemes, schools, colleges etc.). Volunteer Centres use the site to ‘match’ potential volunteers to where there are vacancies, individuals can use it to find opportunities and make contact directly with organisations looking for volunteers. The website is the place to advertise for volunteering opportunities where you are recruiting volunteers to come on a regular basis (more ‘formal’ opportunities). PAVS can help you get registered, and get your roles advertised, we can even offer 1-2-1 orientation sessions on how to use the site (or just have a look around) via zoom/ teams.

Getting on to Volunteering Wales is a 2-stage process, each organisation must register, once the registration has been approved opportunities can be added, there is even a ‘profile page’ for every organisation where you can let people know a bit more about what you do.

Free courses for new volunteers

New volunteers can access some basic online learning via our colleagues in Carmarthenshire (CAVS), who put 5 short modules on their website specifically for volunteers, including ‘confidence’, ‘confidentiality’ and ‘staying safe’ https://cavs.org.uk/learning/learning-portal/

Training for existing volunteers

We currently have a bursary scheme running with Learning Pembrokeshire, which allows any volunteer in Pembrokeshire to attend a course with Learning Pembrokeshire (that would be beneficial to their volunteer role) for free.

Thanking volunteers

We have recently relaunched the certificate scheme for volunteers, this is where volunteers (who are interested) can keep a timesheet and we will process certificates for the hours they volunteer, 10, 50, 100+ hours all the way up to 1000. There is a flier, and sample timesheets here https://padlet.com/volforpembs/celebrate

There is also the Pembrokeshire Volunteering Awards which is a nice way to thank a volunteer/ group of volunteers by nominating them for an award.

Support for Volunteer Managers/ Supervisors

We facilitate the Pembrokeshire Volunteer Organiser’s Network (PVON) which is free to join. Meetings are held 3 times a year with guest speakers/ networking and updates. In between meetings we send around emails and update information here https://padlet.com/louisewilkinson/PVON please let us know if you would like to be added to the mailing list.

Do you have any volunteering options that might be of interest to a ‘team’ who would like to volunteer?

We often get approached by organisations or businesses looking for ‘team’/ staff volunteering opportunities. This can be a one-off task/ finish type activity (usually Employer Supported Volunteering) or a short project that could be completed over a few sessions. We have recently been approached by teams at Welsh Government and Pembrokeshire County Council. If you think you might be able to offer something and would like to be added to the mailing list, please let us know. When we get a team asking for some volunteering, we take some basic details (preferred days/ times, location, idea of numbers), we then forward this to those on the mailing list and you would let us know – at that point if it is something you can offer, and if so what. We would then pass that information on to the person who requested the volunteering, and they would get in touch with you directly. We realise that tasks often change throughout the year, especially outdoor/ maintenance tasks which often suit a group of volunteers, so we don’t hold a ‘catalogue’ of options.

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About the Volunteer Centre

The Volunteer Centre, based at PAVS, can support you with recruiting and managing volunteers. From sample policies and documents through to help with advertising your opportunities and 'matching' potential volunteers to your opportunities and celebrating volunteers.

We work with individuals, voluntary organisations, community groups and public sector organisations to promote volunteering opportunities and to support individuals to find volunteer placements that suit their needs.

New to recruiting and/ or managing volunteers?

The Volunteer Centre at PAVS is here to help. Need a Volunteering Policy, templates and an idea of where to start to recruit and mange volunteers effectively, and safely? Talk to one of the trained Volunteering Officers, during office hours, or you can find a lot of the information you may need here:

Some great resources created by our colleagues in West Glamorgan.

Including a Policies and Procedures Checklist for Volunteer involving organisations and a Volunteer Co-ordinator Guide Toolkit
West Glamorgan Volunteering Support
You might be interested in this free online course, developed by our colleagues in Carmarthenshire. Which takes you through all the elements of Volunteer Management from getting started to more complex volunteer management issues. You don't need a login and can dip in and out as you please, the first module is called 'Preparing to involve volunteers' the second is on the Volunteering Policy.
CAVS Learning Portal
Modules take between 30-45 minutes.
New Volunteer Managers/ Supervisors
Anyone new to supervising/ managing volunteers might be interested in these free courses (they will need an email address and password to register and login):
There are many more courses on the site, including Safeguarding as well as lots of information sheets on a variety of topics.
Courses here https://thirdsectorsupport.wales/our-courses/

Information sheets here https://thirdsectorsupport.wales/our-resources/volunteering/

Need Volunteers?

The Volunteer Centre, based at PAVS, can help with advertising for new volunteers via the Volunteering Wales website https://volunteering-wales.net/

All organisations must have - as a minimum a Volunteering Policy and Insurance that covers volunteers.

Volunteering Wales is a searchable site that all Volunteer Centres in Wales use, as well as the general public (and our partners such as employability schemes, schools, colleges etc.). Volunteer Centres use the site to 'match' potential volunteers to where there are opportunities, individuals can use it to find opportunities and make contact directly with organisations looking for volunteers.

The website is the place to advertise for volunteering opportunities where you are recruiting volunteers to come on a regular basis (more 'formal' opportunities).

We can help you get registered, and get your roles advertised, we can even offer 1-2-1 orientation sessions on how to use the site (or just have a look around) via zoom/ teams. Also once you are registered you get free membership to PVON (Pembrokeshire Volunteer Organiser's Network - see below).

Getting on to Volunteering Wales is a 2-stage process, each organisation must register https://volunteering-wales.net/register once the registration has been approved opportunities can be added (these also have to be approved by the Volunteer Centre), there is even a 'profile page' for every organisation where you can let people know a bit more about what you do.

You can have more than one contact per account and volunteers can see a contact email address for the organisation before they apply for an opportunity.

Alternatively if you are planning an 'open day' or one off volunteering day where you would like people to turn up and help just for that day you can advertise via the 'Community Listings' page on the Connect Platform (and social media). This is a bit like an online community noticeboard where activities and events happening across Pembrokeshire are listed https://connectpembrokeshire.org.uk/activities

Free courses for your volunteers

Volunteers can access some basic online learning via our colleagues in Carmarthenshire (CAVS), who put 5 short modules on their website specifically for volunteers, 'confidence', 'confidentiality' and 'staying safe' for those new to volunteering there is 'Preparing to volunteer' and 'How volunteering can work for you' https://cavs.org.uk/learning/learning-portal/

They are free and don't even need an email/ login. Volunteers just follow the link and work through the course/ sections that are of interest.

PAVS currently have a bursary scheme running with Learning Pembrokeshire, which allows anyone already volunteering in Pembrokeshire to attend a course with Learning Pembrokeshire (that would be beneficial to their volunteer role) for free. These are generally face-to-face courses delivered throughout Pembrokeshire and can range from First Aid and Food Hygiene to digital skills.

Contact the Volunteer Centre for more information, or see the PVON Padlet.

Thanking your volunteers

Certificates

The Volunteering for Pembrokeshire certificate scheme for volunteers, this is where volunteers (who are interested) can keep a timesheet and we will process certificates for the hours they volunteer, 10, 50, 100+ hours all the way up to 1000. More here https://www.pavs.org.uk/help-for-people/volunteering/

Pembrokeshire Volunteering Awards
Celebrating outstanding volunteers across Pembrokeshire and the special difference they have made in people's lives!
Volunteers' Week 1-7 June

Volunteers' Week is an annual celebration of the contribution people make across Pembrokeshire (and the UK) through volunteering.

There are specific theme days throughout the week and we try to put on events, training, meetings and other activities during the week. A lot on online promotion is done (social media) and there are logos. Graphics and marketing materials available to help you thank your volunteers and celebrate. Most planning and promotional activity is promoted via the PVON network (see below)

Pembrokeshire Volunteer Organiser's Network (PVON)
Support for Volunteer Managers/ Supervisors
We facilitate the Pembrokeshire Volunteer Organiser's Network (PVON) which is free to join. Meetings are held 3 times a year (zoom/ face-to-face) with guest speakers/ networking and updates. In between meetings we send around emails and update information here

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Volunteering Support | Pembrokeshire Association of Voluntary Services

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Volunteering Support Welcome to Volunteering for Pembrokeshire - The Volunteer Centre for Pembrokeshire Your local 'one stop shop' for all things volunteeri ...

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Do you have any volunteering roles to advertise?

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Do you have any volunteering roles to advertise?

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The best place to get your roles seen, and potentially 'matched' by the Team at the Volunteer Centre in PAVS, is to get them on to the Volunteering Wales website. Louise at PAVS can help - with lots of hints and tips to get your role(s) seen!

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Updates on:
Volunteering Awards 2021
Certificates for Volunteers
Training Bursary for Volunteers
Volunteering Wales
Updates from PVON members
DBS checks and update service
Other training for volunteers/ volunteer managers

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If you have enjoyed this Padlet why not browse other Padlets available from PAVS Colleagues by following the links below.

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1. 2025 Volunteering Awards

2. Paperwork relating to the certificates volunteers can get for the hours they volunteer

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Check back for updates on Funding Sources, Funding Deadlines, Events & more!

Link here; https://padlet.com/lornalivock/FundingPembs

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New information sheet on Investing in Volunteers

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New information sheet on Investing in Volunteers

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On the TSSW Knowledge Hub

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Volunteering Archives - Third Sector Support Wales

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Data Hub updated with even more info on Wales' voluntary sector 

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Data Hub updated with even more info on Wales' voluntary sector 

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Looking for information on the voluntary sector in Wales? The Data Hub has just been updated, with even more information to help us evidence the vital impact of Wales' voluntary organisations, as well as a new user-friendly interface.

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Looking for information on the voluntary sector in Wales? On this page you'll find the latest stats, information and research about charities, social enterprises and non-profits of all kinds in Wales.

The Third Sector Data Hub

The go to place for statistical information about third sector activities, including numbers of organisations, sector income, volunteering hours, areas of work, where groups are located and more. Information can be presented to suit you and data can be organised by type - gender, age, location, etc.

The Data Hub is intended to help demonstrate the impact of the voluntary sector's work in Wales.

Any questions? Please contact David Cook, WCVA Policy Officer, on  dcook@wcva.cymru .

More evidence

Stats and reports for researchers, funders, those looking for funding, the media, and anyone looking for information about the voluntary sector in Wales.

Media Centre

Publications

A selection of useful reports for, by or about the sector.

Infoengine

Search a database of local services delivered by voluntary organisations.

Visit infoengine

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Looking for information on the voluntary sector in Wales? On this page you'll find the latest stats, information and research about charities, social enterprises and non-profits of all kinds in Wales. The go to place for statistical information about third sector activities, including numbers of organisations, sector income, volunteering hours, areas of work, where groups are located and more.

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Next PVON meeting 19 May 2pm (zoom).
Topics for discussion:
Volunteers' Week 1-7 June
Volunteer of the Year Awards
Publicity/ photos of volunteers

Join Zoom Meeting
https://zoom.us/j/96128850614?pwd=RzdGZlp2TlBsY0NnM0trSVkxRkMxdz09

Meeting ID: 961 2885 0614
Passcode: 995151

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Volunteering for Pembrokeshire – have your say

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Volunteering for Pembrokeshire – have your say

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Are you interested in the future of volunteering in Pembrokeshire?

Does your organisation or group involve volunteers, or would you like to?

Then read on!

Pembrokeshire is well known for its community spirit, and this has never been more apparent than during the COVID-19 pandemic.  People have stepped forward to help their neighbours, their community, and the county like never before.

Volunteering in all its forms is a huge asset to the county, and there is a great opportunity now for us to work together to take volunteering in Pembrokeshire to the next level.

If you would like to find out more, influence decisions, and get involved in the next steps, please take this opportunity to have your say.  We want to know:

·         What works well?

·         What needs to be improved – difficulties & challenges?

·         What are the barriers to getting everyone involved?

·         Future priority areas?

When is it?

Two identical sessions are available (you only need to attend one):

Tuesday 2nd March 2021 6pm-7.30pm – first option in dropdown list on booking form (link below)

OR

Thursday 4th March 2021 3pm-4.30pm (following PAVS AGM – see below) – third option in dropdown list on booking form unless you are also attending the AGM

Registration

The sessions will take place by Zoom, please follow the link below to register for your preferred date:

https://us02web.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZ0vdumvqTwvH9P_gyuoHBzS-Ipy9YuhrDwO

After registering, you will receive a confirmation email containing information about joining the meeting.

PAVS Annual General Meeting for the year to 31st March 2020 will take place on Thursday 4th March 2021 at 2.00pm.  You are welcome to join us for a quick look back at what has happened in the last year, what we have learned and, more importantly, what the future holds – as ever, a real mix of challenge and opportunity!  The AGM will end at around 2.45pm – so, plenty of time to grab a cup of tea before the volunteering session.

When you book for the AGM on the above link (second option in the dropdown list) you will be able to stay for the event at 3pm, if you so wish, no need to book again.

We look forward to seeing you!

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Gwirfoddoli i Sir Benfro – Rhowch eich barn 

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Gwirfoddoli i Sir Benfro – Rhowch eich barn 

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Oes gennych chi ddiddordeb yn nyfodol gwirfoddoli yn Sir Benfro?

A yw eich sefydliad neu grŵp yn cynnwys gwirfoddolwyr, neu a hoffech chi?

Yna darllenwch ymlaen!

Mae Sir Benfro yn adnabyddus am ei hysbryd cymunedol, ac ni fu hyn erioed yn fwy amlwg nag yn ystod pandemig COVID-19. Mae pobl wedi camu ymlaen i helpu eu cymdogion, eu cymuned, a'r sir fel erioed o'r blaen.

Mae gwirfoddoli o bob math yn gaffaeliad enfawr i'r sir, ac mae cyfle gwych yn awr i ni weithio gyda'n gilydd i fynd â gwirfoddoli yn Sir Benfro i'r lefel nesaf.

Os hoffech gael rhagor o wybodaeth, dylanwadu ar benderfyniadau, a chymryd rhan yn y camau nesaf, cymerwch y cyfle hwn i ddweud eich dweud. Rydyn ni eisiau gwybod:

• Beth sy'n gweithio'n dda?
• Beth sydd angen ei wella – anawsterau a heriau?
• Beth yw'r rhwystrau i gael pawb i gymryd rhan?
• Meysydd blaenoriaeth yn y dyfodol?

Pryd mae hi?

Mae dwy sesiwn union yr un fath ar gael (dim ond un y mae angen i chi ei mynychu):

Dydd Mawrth 2 Mawrth 2021 6pm-7.30pm – opsiwn cyntaf yn y gwymplen ar ffurflen archebu (linc isod)

Neu

Dydd Iau 4 Mawrth 2021 3pm-4.30pm (yn dilyn Cyfarfod Cyffredinol Blynyddol PAVS – gweler isod) - trydydd opsiwn yn y gwymplen ar y ddolen archebu oni bai eich bod hefyd yn mynychu'r Cyfarfod Cyffredinol Blynyddol

Cofrestru

Bydd y sesiynau'n cael eu cynnal gan Zoom, dilynwch y ddolen isod i gofrestru ar gyfer eich dyddiad dewisol:

https://us02web.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZ0vdumvqTwvH9P_gyuoHBzS-Ipy9YuhrDwO

Ar ôl cofrestru, byddwch yn derbyn e-bost cadarnhau sy'n cynnwys gwybodaeth am ymuno â'r cyfarfod.

Bydd Cyfarfod Cyffredinol Blynyddol PAVS ar gyfer y flwyddyn hyd at 31 Mawrth 2020 yn cael ei gynnal ddydd Iau 4 Mawrth 2021 am 2.00pm. Mae croeso i chi ymuno â ni i edrych yn ôl yn gyflym ar yr hyn sydd wedi digwydd yn ystod y flwyddyn ddiwethaf, yr hyn rydym wedi'i ddysgu ac, yn bwysicach, beth sydd gan y dyfodol – fel arfer, cymysgedd go iawn o her a chyfle! Bydd y Cyfarfod Cyffredinol Blynyddol yn dod i ben tua 2.45pm – felly, digon o amser i fachu paned o de cyn y sesiwn wirfoddoli.

Pan fyddwch yn archebu lle ar gyfer y Cyfarfod Cyffredinol Blynyddol ar y ddolen uchod (ail opsiwn yn y gwymplen) byddwch yn gallu aros ar gyfer y digwyddiad am 3yp, os dymunwch, nid oes angen i chi archebu eto.

Cyffredinol Blynyddol. Edrychwn ymlaen at eich gweld!

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Including attracting Welsh Speakers

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Volunteering Archives - Third Sector Support Wales

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Share your volunteer experience with Volunteering for Pembrokeshire (in person or via video call)

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Share your volunteer experience with Volunteering for Pembrokeshire (in person or via video call)

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Please help Rob create some materials to promote volunteering in Pembrokeshire. Full brief for speaking to volunteers attached.
Please make contact with Rob to get involved. Your views and experiences as volunteer managers/ organisers are also an important piece of this work.
Mobile: 07388 542 316

Landline: 01437 621270

Email: hello@cariadpettherapy.co.uk

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Share your volunteer experience with PAVS Volunteering for Pembrokeshire

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https://padlet.com/cherryevans/x2pxykx6rrojzapo

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PADLET i Fforwm Neuaddau Cymunedol                      PADLET for Community Halls  Forum           

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PADLET i Fforwm Neuaddau Cymunedol                      PADLET for Community Halls  Forum           

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https://padlet.com/lizcook1/865278e2227inpmy

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The new TSSW Knowledge Hub continues to be updated with volunteering resources and e-courses – we are expecting a number of information sheets to go live in the next month.

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Covid-19 guidance On this page we've collated all of our Covid-19 guidance and resources for voluntary organisations in Wales. Covid-19 guidance and resources

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For organisations involving volunteers

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Did you know more men than women volunteer in the UK? 

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Did you know more men than women volunteer in the UK? 

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Recent research in the UK shows that traditional gender disparities in volunteering are shifting. Between 2016 and 2020 the average volunteering rate (those who identified as volunteering in the past 3 months) for those who identify as male was 20% and for those who identified as female was 21%, which has been the tradition. From April 2020 to March 2024, however, the average rate was 23% for men and 18% for women.

Source: NFP Research, "Time for Good: Volunteering Trends and Challenges at the Dawn of a New Government," (April, 2025)

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Basic Mental Health Awareness workshop (for Volunteer Managers/ Supervisors) 23/05/23

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Basic Mental Health Awareness workshop (for Volunteer Managers/ Supervisors) 23/05/23

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(please book direct with WWAMH, email address below)

Tues 23rd May 11.30-1pm (zoom)

Topics to be covered:

What is mental health/ describe and identify the differences between the terms mental illness and mental health

Identify common mental health diagnosis and difficulties

Discuss recovery for those experiencing mental health difficulties and what supports recovery

Challenge stigma associated with mental health difficulties

Sources of help and support in Pembs and across West Wales

To book a place please e-mail Angie Darlington at director@wwamh.org.uk

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Do you have volunteering opportunities that Teams/ staff could help with?

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Do you have volunteering opportunities that Teams/ staff could help with?

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Volunteering for Pembrokeshire is supporting a number of businesses/ organisations with their Employee Supported Volunteering Schemes, encouraging staff to get out and help in our local communities.

Some employees can take their leave as a team or an individual, but the hours they have each year are limited.

With this in mind, we encourage PVON members to develop individual opportunities that could appeal to paid staff, bearing in mind that they may not be able to commit to long-term, regular volunteering. As well as thinking about any 'team' volunteering activities that could be done.

We have recently had enquiries from Teams at:
Welsh Government
Job Centre Plus
Pembrokeshire County Council

We also work closely with Dragon LNG and have just started to work with Port of Milford and Bluestone.

Pembrokeshire County Council, alone, employ over 6000 members of staff. Imagine how our local communities and causes would benefit if we could get even just a fraction of that workforce interested in volunteering?

Don’t forget to upload any new individual opportunities to the Volunteering Wales website, and if you want to be added to the list for 'team' volunteering email volunteering@pavs.org.uk

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The ‘What if Everyone Stops Volunteering?’ Report, from not-for-profit social enterprise Works4U, explores in detail the UK social and economic impact of no volunteers. As well as Works4U’s own analysis the report includes 33 independent contributions from expert stakeholders at local, regional, national and specialist levels.

The aim of the report is to increase awareness, particularly to decision-makers, of how reliant the normal functioning of our society is on volunteers.

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What if everyone stopped volunteering? | Works4u

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Pioneering report on what would happen to the UK if everyone stopped volunteering. Written by Dominic Pinkney and with contributions from over 30 expert volunteering stakeholders across the United Kingdom.

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Insights paper to accompany the 'Call to Action' (document below)

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Insights paper to accompany the 'Call to Action' (document below)

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This Insights Paper summarizes key findings from a global survey and a series of global dialogues that, together, captured voices of close to 14,000 volunteers and stakeholder groups from 164 countries responding to the question: to better harness the power of volunteering towards sustainable development, what needs to change – and who has the power to change it? From the research, three Key Insights emerged: The Value of Volunteers.

Enabling Environment for Volunteers. Power in Volunteering and Protection of Volunteers.

Four areas of recommendations are put forward:

1. Championing the Value of Volunteering.

2. Enabling Environment for Volunteering to Make a Difference.

3. Significant and Sustained Investment in Volunteering.

4. Safeguarding of Volunteers.

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Recruitment and retention aren’t the answer

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Recruitment and retention aren’t the answer

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This article by Rob Jackson (who many of us met - albeit online - in January) covers many of the issues around recruitment and retention he covered in his talk - and some extras.

It is quite a short article so please do take a few minutes to read, and perhaps share. Rob suggests, 'Maybe the rest of this article needs to be read by others in the organisation? The board. The CEO. The Finance Director. The management team. Your colleagues who look to you, the Volunteer Manager, to find them volunteers.'