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The Sunflower Icons - Do you know the icons?

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The Sunflower Icons - Do you know the icons?

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The Hidden Disabilities Sunflower is here every day of the year to support people living with non-visible disabilities in their communities by raising awareness, training businesses and sharing stories to help create a more inclusive, understanding society.

For more information check out the hidden disabilities site A symbol for non-visible disabilities

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Volunteer Fair - Merchants Place Cromer June 15th 

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Volunteer Fair - Merchants Place Cromer June 15th 

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If you are recruiting volunteers in or around the Cromer area join the Volunteering Fair at Merchants Place.

9-1 for stall holders and 10-1 or public.

To book your place contact info@merchantsplace.co.uk

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Festival of Volunteering simplified logo

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Volunteer Extravaganza 2026! - Thursday 4th June 

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Volunteer Extravaganza 2026! - Thursday 4th June 

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Thurs 4th June, 10am-4pm at the Forum, Norwich

Are you part of a local charity, community group, or social enterprise in Norfolk seeking new volunteers?

Join us for the Volunteer Extravaganza 2026—a celebration of volunteering! This isn’t just another volunteering fair; it's a vibrant, interactive event inviting the public to learn about your organisation and explore how they can contribute.

We're inviting voluntary groups from across Norfolk to set up stalls or "activity spaces" to demonstrate the incredible work you're doing. Previous years' activities include: crafting; planting seeds; quizzes & games; meet & greet with current volunteers; demonstrations and much more!

Click on the link above to book your space now.... only £35+VAT for a stall space for the whole day!

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Book an activity space to promote your opportunities & reach new volunteers! Showcase your organisation & invite visitors to give it a go!

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Volunteer Coordinator Meeting Notes  - 11.02.26

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Volunteer Coordinator Meeting Notes 11/02/2026

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Volunteer Coordinator Meeting Notes 11/02/2026

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Check out our funding padlet! Don't forget to save it and add it to your favourites.

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Get InVOLved Norfolk - New opportunity layout

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Get InVOLved Norfolk - New opportunity layout

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We've had a refresh, no more adding multiple images to your opportunities.

if you have any questions or feedback do let us know

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Aviva is pleased to introduce Container 58 at St Saviours Yard — a welcoming, flexible space available throughout 2026 for local charities, community groups and social enterprises to use for community-focused activities.

Container 58 opens on 2 March 2026. If you are interested in using the space, please complete this form and submit it at least 15 working days before your planned date: Community Container Booking Form – Fill in form

Once your booking is confirmed, we’ll arrange an induction session on site and provide an agreement letter. Completing this induction will make you eligible to use Container 58 on an ongoing basis, so please consider whether you’re seeking a one‑off booking or repeated sessions throughout the year.

If any of the details are not yet confirmed you can make that clear on the form and we can liaise in the lead up to your dates.

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Apply now: Norfolk Community Fund open until end of March

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Apply now: Norfolk Community Fund open until end of March

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There’s still time for community groups across Norfolk to benefit from the Norfolk Community Fund. This fund offers small grants of £200–£2,500, awarded by local county councillors and delivered through Crowdfunder to help community groups bring their ideas to life.

If a local group has an idea that would brighten their area, strengthen connections or support wellbeing, now is a great time to apply.

The Norfolk Community Fund team has also updated and improved the payment process, making it quicker and easier for groups to receive their grant once their project has been approved. This is great news for organisations who want to get started straight away.

Because each councillor manages their own pot, some still have funding available while others have already allocated theirs. A quick check with your county councillor will show what’s possible.

All applications need to be submitted and approved by the end of March, so please do share this with any groups you’re supporting who might benefit.

So far, the fund has already backed a wide mix of fantastic local projects, from sensory gardens and youth sports kit to community events and wellbeing activities. Each one shows how even a small grant can help something meaningful take shape in a local community.

Community groups and organisations can find out more and apply here www.norfolk.gov.uk/communityfund

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Would you like to promote your roles to the latest completers of the Norfolk Volunteer Passport?

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Would you like to promote your roles to the latest completers of the Norfolk Volunteer Passport?

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Guest slot available Tuesday 10th February 8pm online - slots are around 5-10 minutes, email us to get the joining link.

Volunteercentre@voluntarynorfolk.org.uk

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Our Power is a CIC offering free energy advice to households – whether you need help with your bills, want some tips on how to keep your home warmer, or you’re thinking about installing solar panels or a heat pump.

Our energy champions attend events in Norwich and hold regular drop-ins around the city – see Energy advice – Our Power for a list.

We can also come and talk to people in your workplace or community group. If you’d like us to run a session or attend an event, please email info@ourpower.org.uk.

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Our Power - Community Energy for Norwich

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Big ask but a Norwich employer is looking to support an activity or task in the Norwich area on March 18th. There are 30 people available.

If you need many hands, do reach out and I will put you in touch.

Many thanks

laura.holland@voluntarynorfolk.org.uk

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we've had an enquiry regarding management systems. What volunteer management systems are you using and would you share you experience? Feel free to comment below or email me at laura.holland@voluntarynorfolk.org.uk

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Are you making the most from Get InVOLved Norfolk?

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Are you making the most from Get InVOLved Norfolk?

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If you missed our session or would just like a re-cap, you can see the recorded session via the link below.

during the session, we went through:

How to use data and analytics to track applications

Exploring new features such as recurring roles and postcode filters

Linking your own forms or website to Get InVOLved

Image size guidelines and promotional tools

Adding videos and sharing opportunities on social media

Creating and customising your own forms

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Getting the most of Get InVOLved session with Laura Holland Voluntary Norfolk's Volunteer Platform Manager 

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Getting the most of Get InVOLved session with Laura Holland Voluntary Norfolk's Volunteer Platform Manager 

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If you are a user of Get InVOLved and would like to know more about how to make good use of it, check out this recording of an online information session.

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Does anyone know of a validated tool for measuring volunteer outcomes and satisfaction? Thanks.

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Funding The Future 2026: Diversifying Income for VCSEs - Thursday 29th January 

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Funding The Future 2026: Diversifying Income for VCSEs - Thursday 29th January 

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Back for 2026... Explore new ways of generating income for Norfolk VCSEs. Gain insight into the funding landscape & make new connections.

Ready to shake up your organisation’s funding?

Curious about corporate giving?

Eager to explore social investment?

Want to learn about new income streams and reimagine the future funding of your organisation?

Join the Empowering Communities Partnership for a whole day filled with fundraising expertise, skill-sharing and opportunities for networking, with lunch and refreshments included! This event sold out quickly the first time we ran it; this year it's back with more tickets and a bigger programme!

We will be joined by a range of local funding specialists and those with lived experience of diversifying their voluntary, community or social enterprise(VCSE) organisations' income streams.

We welcome any Norfolk-based VCSEs to join us for the chance to learn from experts and peers, ask questions of local funders and make new connections!

Maybe you’ve felt intimidated or overwhelmed by where to start with new fundraising streams? Or perhaps you’re unsure how to explore your options? There will be chances throughout the day to network with both funders, practitioners and fellow VCSE professionals, gaining insights, expertise and useful contacts.

Here’s what to expect:

Keynote speech from Richard Morris, Co-Founder and CEO of The Giving Machine, on funding challenges, innovation and changing the mindset of VCSEs

Your choice from 6 workshops:

1. Workshop: Unlocking Youth-Led Funding

2. Workshop: Funding Pathways for Skills and Employment Projects

3. Workshop: Winning Public Sector work: A Practical Guide to Tendering for VCSEs

4. Workshop: Write Bids that start with Strengths: Embedding ABCD into Funding Applications

5. Workshop: Earning the Ask: Connecting with your Audience on Social Media

6. Workshop: Building Meaningful Corporate Partnerships that Fund your Mission

A range of information stands with local and national funding opportunities, support and signposting

Inspirational panel discussion on Social Investment featuring Good Finance, Rebecca White and SIB Group

Plenty of opportunities to network with speakers, contributors and attendees to learn from each other

Delicious lunch from local caterers Tall Orders, plus tea and coffee throughout the day

Other things to note:

This whole day event, unlike many of our other events, incurs a charge of £20 + VAT and Eventbrite fee per participant . This is to ensure attendance and increase the scale and reach of the event as well as to contribute to the costs of the day, which are subsidised by the Empowering Communities Partnership. Lunch and all refreshments are included in the price. We kindly ask that you pay via credit/debit card when booking. The price has been kept the same as the 2025 event.

Tickets are limited to a maximum of 2 per organisation, to allow as many VCSEs as possible to benefit from the day.

Taking place on Thursday 29th January from 9:30am - 4pm at Dereham Memorial Hall.

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Funding the Future: Diversifying Income for Charities & Social Enterprises

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Back for 2026... Explore new ways of generating income for Norfolk VCSEs. Gain insight into the funding landscape & make new connections.

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Supporting Volunteers Guide for smaller organisations

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Supporting Volunteers Guide for smaller organisations

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Do you experience challenges in recruiting and retaining volunteers? Are you finding that the traditional ways of doing things are less effective than they were? Could you do with some ‘easy wins’ and fresh ideas to help inspire you?

Over the last few months members of Norfolk & Waveney Vision for Volunteering have been meeting to address what best practice looks like, and how organisations may need to change their ways of recruiting and recognising volunteers.  This partnership of local delivery and support organisations from the voluntary and community sector, community-focused local government officers and other volunteer involving organisations have researched and developed Supporting Volunteers – a guide for smaller organisations. The process has been supported by Voluntary Norfolk and Norfolk County Council.

Free copies of the guide are now available from Health Information Leaflet Service where you can order multiple copies and they will be delivered to a convenient location. An accessible pdf is attached for you to send out to colleagues.

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It’s nearly Black Friday, a huge FREE funding opportunity for your organisation! 1 in 3 people across the UK will be shopping online that day, spending an expected £250 each. If those connected with your organisation shop Black Friday via easyfundraising, they’ll raise an average of £7.50 at no extra cost – with just 10 supporters that’s £75 raised in a single day!

Don’t miss out – make sure your organisation is registered and let your network know to join easyfundraising before they bag those bargains from over 8,000 retailers. Let’s turn Black Friday into GIVE BACK Friday!

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You shop. Your cause gets money. For free.

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Join 2.1m people raising free donations via 6,000 shops & sites.

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Sharing with the Network -Just in time for Halloween, easyfundraising are giving away daily treats (no tricks here!) of £100 or £200 donations to community organisations. So, grab your brooms and fly over to easyfundraising to register your organisation (it’s free). From 24 October. 

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Sharing with the Network -Just in time for Halloween, easyfundraising are giving away daily treats (no tricks here!) of £100 or £200 donations to community organisations. So, grab your brooms and fly over to easyfundraising to register your organisation (it’s free). From 24 October. 

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🦇 You’ll go batty over this – daily chances to win £100 or £200 donations for your organisation this Halloween 🎃. Search for the tombstone on easyfundraising’s Haunted House for your chance to win daily from 24th October.

Don’t miss out on scarily good donations for your organisation. Fly over to the easyfundraising site to register your organisation and join in before 31st October 🧛:

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You shop. Your cause gets money. For free.

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Join 2.1m people raising free donations via 6,000 shops & sites.

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Local school would like to support local children in need. 

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Local school would like to support local children in need. 

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we've received an enquiry- can you help? A local school would like to make shoeboxes for local children in need for Christmas. They are hoping to be connected with Norfolk organisations who work with young people.

If you would like to be the organisation they gift their boxes to please let me know asap laura.holland@voluntarynorfolk.org.uk

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Take the survey and support the research into older volunteers and their management. 

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Take the survey and support the research into older volunteers and their management. 

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Researchers at Newcastle University (Bruce Davenport and Yang Wang) are studying the point in the volunteering lifecycle when older volunteers come to the end of their volunteering. Many older volunteers find this difficult and some volunteer managers also find it a challenging process to manage.

More information can be found via this link

https://research.ncl.ac.uk/cessationofvolunteering/

Bruce & Yang would like to survey people who manage older volunteers from across all volunteer-involving sectors in the UK and all parts of the UK. They would like to hear from staff who are employed as volunteer managers, staff who have volunteer supervision as part of their job role or volunteers who manage other volunteers.

Overall, the project explores the experiences of volunteers and volunteer managers. The team hopes to gather evidence to support the development of good practices in this area.

To take part in the survey, please follow this link: https://app.onlinesurveys.jisc.ac.uk/s/newcastle/cessation-of-volunteering-survey

They are running a prize draw for people who complete the survey with the prizes being 3 M&S vouchers worth £50. The survey will remain open until November 14, 2025.

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Online surveys is a powerful, easy to use tool for creating online surveys. Run by Jisc, online surveys is used by over 300 different organisations in the UK…

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How to Balance Safer Recruitment with Accessible & Inclusive Volunteering

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How to Balance Safer Recruitment with Accessible & Inclusive Volunteering

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Five practical ways to keep recruitment safe and open to everyone.

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How to Balance Safer Recruitment with Accessible & Inclusive Volunteering - Inclusive Volunteering

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This is a question I get asked all the time. How to ensure we are being safe while open to volunteers with lived experience of trauma, the justice system or

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Shaping the Future of Volunteering: Key Insights from Rosterfy’s State of UK Volunteer Management Report 2025

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Shaping the Future of Volunteering: Key Insights from Rosterfy’s State of UK Volunteer Management Report 2025

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Rosterfy is passionate about empowering organisations to better engage, manage and retain their volunteers. That’s why Rosterfy launched its State of UK Volunteer Management 2025 Survey – the first of its kind in the UK that will shine a light on the realities of volunteer management today.

The findings are both encouraging and thought-provoking.

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Shaping the Future of Volunteering: Key Insights from Rosterfy’s State of UK Volunteer Management Report 2025 - Association of Volunteer Managers

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Rosterfy is passionate about empowering organisations to better engage, manage and retain their volunteers. That’s why Rosterfy launched its State of UK

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Volunteer Coordinator Meeting Notes 24/09/2025

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Volunteer Coordinator Meeting Notes 24/09/2025

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This article looks at the benefits of working with corporates and how to encourage their staff to get involved with your charity.

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We look at the benefits of working with corporates and how to encourage their staff to get involved with your charity

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The importance of volunteer management in the digital age

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The importance of volunteer management in the digital age

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This article explores how digital technology can enhance volunteer management and improve the volunteer experience as a result.

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The importance of volunteer management in the digital age

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We explore how digital technology can enhance volunteer management and improve the volunteer experience as a result

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How to work with digitally excluded volunteers

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How to work with digitally excluded volunteers

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Here are six ways to make your charity more digitally inclusive for volunteers, boosting recruitment and driving support

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How to work with digitally excluded volunteers

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Here are six ways to make your charity more digitally inclusive for volunteers, boosting recruitment and driving support

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The Empowering Communities Partnership are seeking feedback from the VCSEs we support on their current use of AI and their AI development needs, to help us shape targeted support around this with trusted professional partners.

Your feedback will be instrumental in understanding how we can help you navigate the risks and opportunities of new technology at this pivotal time.

Please can we ask you to complete the survey, we promise it won't take long and will really help us! Thank you so much!

AI Survey

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Please take the time to complete our survey. Your feedback is important.

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NAVCA have asked volunteer involving organisations what they find most difficult when it comes to making sure everyone can access volunteering opportunities, and all volunteers are supported and celebrated. In this guide, they share the experience and expertise their members in inclusive volunteering, so that you can be inspired to make your own volunteering practice more inclusive.

Read online or download for free by clicking the link above.

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Breaking Down Barriers: A Masterclass in Inclusive Volunteering hosted by NAVCA 

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Breaking Down Barriers: A Masterclass in Inclusive Volunteering hosted by NAVCA 

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In this, Time for Impact partnered with NAVCA (The National Association for Voluntary and Community Action) to host a vital conversation in front of their members.

Following up on NAVCA's excellent Guide to Inclusive Volunteering, hosts Chris Wade and Matt Cobble are joined by an expert panel to explore how we can move from intention to action. How do we adapt our cultures, processes, and language to make our organisations genuinely welcoming and inclusive for everyone?

This episode is packed with practical advice, challenging questions, and inspiring insights for any organisation looking to build a more diverse, dynamic, and truly representative volunteer team.

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Episode 26 - Breaking Down Barriers: A Live Masterclass in Inclusive Volunteering hosted by NAVCA

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The Mindful Impact Initiative supports volunteers by offering discounted Mental Health First Aid Training, and access to free monthly webinars. Their goal is to make valuable training more affordable and accessible for front-line volunteers who support individuals and communities, who may be experiencing mental health challenges.

Through the Mindful Impact Initiative, volunteers and charity staff can access:

50% funding towards any of our Mental Health training, for volunteers.

30% funding towards any of our Mental Health training, for charity staff.

FREE Monthly Mental Health Awareness webinars, accessible to all, offering simple, effective ways to support mental health, build knowledge, and help break stigma.

Access your funding by using the code MIVNCVS when enquiring.

📌 Find out more here: https://www.transpiretraining.com/mindful-impact
📧 Email: courses@transpiretraining.com
📞 Call: 01277 801844

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Mindful Impact Volunteer & Charity Initiative, funded by Transpire. (3)

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🌟We are excited to announce the launch of our new training platform for volunteers and those working in VCSE organisations in Norfolk and Waveney🌟

The platform hosts courses and workshops, creating a convenient hub for developing skills and knowledge.

On the platform, you’ll find:

Fundraising, marketing and communications training

Leadership and management development

IT and digital skills workshops

Health, safety and social care training

Trustee and board training

Working with children, young people and families

Supporting vulnerable populations

And more!

Training is available in a variety of formats – both online and in-person – and the platform’s search and filter tools make it easy to browse by location, topic, delivery method, or keywords.

If you’re already registered with Get InVOLved Norfolk, you can use your existing login, and all your training records and certificates will be stored in one place.

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The Future of Corporate Charity Support 

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The Future of Corporate Charity Support 

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Corporate giving in the UK is evolving, and it’s not just about cash. According to DSC’s latest research, a growing trend is blending financial support with in-kind contributions - like free training, specialist expertise, and access to networks. One example is Benefact Group’s Charity Support Programme, which combines grants with resources tailored to small charities’ needs, from social media support to wellbeing tools.

A new impact study shows this blended model works: 98% of charities want more than just funding, and 88% say they gained training they couldn’t otherwise afford. Benefact’s approach also generated £37.50 in value for every £1 spent on non-financial support. The takeaway? Corporate support is most effective when it’s responsive, tailored, and multifaceted - offering real expertise alongside funding. The future of giving may well lie in this kind of collaboration.

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The future of corporate charity support - Directory of Social Change

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What does the future of corporate charity support look like? After over 50 years of exploring funders, has DSC’s Research Team switched to developing time travel? Well, no… but we have been researching corporate giving, and we may have seen the future! According to DSC’s latest Guide to UK Company Giving, corporate giving in […]

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The sun is shining and I'm going to mention the C word! No not cake, Christmas!  

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The sun is shining and I'm going to mention the C word! No not cake, Christmas!  

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Employers have started to ask for Christmas team opportunities for various areas and group sizes leading up to the festive period. If you have anything please add it to Get InVOLved Norfolk! Do reach out if you have any questions Volunteercentre@voluntarynorfolk.org.uk

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Volunteer Management Apprenticeship - Spaces available for September cohort 

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Volunteer Management Apprenticeship - Spaces available for September cohort 

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Volunteer Management Apprenticeship overview 

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Wellbeing in Voluntary Organisations - the cost of Doing good. 

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Wellbeing in Voluntary Organisations - the cost of Doing good. 

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Barometer Report Wave 10 - Wellbeing in Voluntary Organisations

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Access applications and change the status on Get InVOLved Norfolk 

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Access applications and change the status on Get InVOLved Norfolk 

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How to Manage Your Application Statuses Efficiently 📊

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In this video, I demonstrate how to access all of your applications and manage their statuses in one convenient location. Once signed in, you can find the data options on the left side; simply switch from users to received applications to view all your opportunities. I show you how to filter the applications by status, such as pending or accepted, and I specifically change one status from pending. Please follow along and make sure to update the statuses of your applications as needed.

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Adding volunteering opportunities to Get InVOLved Norfolk  

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Adding volunteering opportunities to Get InVOLved Norfolk  

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How to Add Volunteering Opportunities on the Get Involved Platform 🌟

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In this video, I demonstrate how to add volunteering opportunities to our platform. After signing in, you'll find the option at the top, where you can input details like the title, location, and type of opportunity. I guide you through adding a brief summary, a more detailed description, and even images or videos to enhance your listing. It's important to select relevant activities and provide a welcome message for potential volunteers. Please take action by following these steps to create engaging opportunities for our community.

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Can you help with volunteer training platforms?

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Can you help with volunteer training platforms?

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Our enquirer is looking to change their platform. they are looking to potentially use it for staff and are looking for something that is able to set up a clear learning pathway for each volunteer dependant on service/role with training courses that are relevant to volunteer experiences. they need to cover basics like safe guarding adults and children, data security, EDI, fire safety, but would also want to be able to add more service specific like food safety or manual handling.

If anyone has any suggestions please do let us know

volunteercentre@voluntarynorfolk.org.uk

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Take time to say thank you: Building a culture of appreciation in your volunteer programme.

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Take time to say thank you: Building a culture of appreciation in your volunteer programme.

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This recorded webinar covers:

The importance of building a culture of appreciation and recognition in your organisation

Innovative and meaningful ways to reward volunteers for their time and dedication

How organisations can use time credits and other systems to foster engagement

Practical tips for creating sustainable volunteer reward programs

Real-world examples of successful volunteer recognition models

Whether you’re a volunteer coordinator, program manager, or leader of a non-profit, this session provides you with actionable insights on how to keep your volunteers motivated, satisfied, and coming back year after year.

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Powered by Atlas - a B2B SaaS HubSpot theme

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Take time to say thank you: Building a culture of appreciation in your volunteer programme

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In this insightful webinar, we’ll explore how to build a culture of appreciation within your volunteer programs and discover effective ways to reward those who make a difference.

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Practical and step by step guidance to help you manage volunteers and the process of volunteering well

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How to help staff and volunteers embrace digital

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How to help staff and volunteers embrace digital

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How can you equip staff and volunteers with the digital skills they need to do their job well – and to feel confident about it? Here are some ideas to help your team embrace digital.

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Join us on the 14th of May for our Q&A session. It will provide a whistlestop tour of Microsoft Copilot's key capabilities, how they can help charities, and answer all your burning questions around Microsoft's AI service.
Sign up here

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How to help staff and volunteers embrace digital

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As part of our Digital Inclusion campaign, we offer top tips and practical guidance so that charities can ensure their staff and volunteers are making the most of tech

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Supporting neurodiversity in your volunteer team

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Supporting neurodiversity in your volunteer team

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This guide from Befriending Networks gives you an introduction to neurodiversity and suggestions for how to build neuro-inclusivity into every stage of the volunteer journey.

It gives top tips for:

Advertising volunteer roles

Designing the application process

Conducting interviews

Running training

Providing ongoing support and supervision

It also signposts to other resources for further guidance on best practice.

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Fantastic volunteers and how to find them – five volunteer recruitment tips #VolunteersWeek

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Fantastic volunteers and how to find them – five volunteer recruitment tips #VolunteersWeek

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How can we reach out and find fantastic volunteers throughout the year, even in a post-pandemic world? DSC have put together five tips for recruitment.

1. Target: Be specific about the skills and qualities needed for a volunteer role, and focus recruitment efforts where the ideal candidates are likely to be found.

2. Ask: Once you've identified your target audience, actively and repeatedly ask them to volunteer - many don’t act simply because they’ve never been directly invited.

3. Sell: Promote volunteering by highlighting how it benefits the volunteer, not just the organisation - make the opportunity appealing and relevant to their needs.

4. Respond: Treat volunteer enquiries with urgency and professionalism to make a good first impression and maintain their interest.

5. Scale of Engagement: Offer flexible, accessible entry points to volunteering and support people to deepen their involvement over time.

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ByRob Jackson, Director, Rob Jackson Consulting Ltd

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Fantastic volunteers and how to find them – five volunteer recruitment tips #VolunteersWeek - Directory of Social Change

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Here are five quick tips. 1 – Target A common mistake people make when recruiting volunteers is suggesting that anyone is suitable for the vacant role. This approach is often driven by a fear that nobody will come forward. It’s a technique that can work for certain positions, typically those that require no specific skills […]

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Atkinson HR Managing Volunteers and Staff - Finding the right balance 

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Atkinson HR Managing Volunteers and Staff - Finding the right balance 

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A recording of an online event that took place in June 2025.

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Managing Volunteers & Staff Finding the Right Balance 2025-06-02

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Want to find out when the next Volunteer Coordinators meeting is? Sign up to the network here

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Learn more about joining the Voluntary Norfolk network. Through our work we hope to achieve our vision of connected, resilient and compassionate communities.

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Charity Digital explores common barriers faced by volunteers when participating and how charities can overcome them.

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We explore common barriers faced by volunteers when participating and how charities can overcome them

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We need help with marshalling at our Only The Brave event on 21 September at Euston Estate, Thetford IP24 2QP

There is a role for everyone (over 18, although we can have 16+ with an adult or supervised groups of younger people from organisation such as Scouts, Guide, Cadets).  Travel expenses can be reimbursed.

We welcome you to volunteer on your own, in pairs, family/friends’ groups or colleagues, so this makes a great day out whilst making a real difference and ultimately helping to save lives. Previous volunteers have loved the day saying it’s the best event they volunteer at all year.

If you can join us, or have any questions, please contact Sarah at sarah.nunn@eaaa.org.uk.

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Rosterfy - Can you shape Volunteer Management in the UK? 

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Rosterfy - Can you shape Volunteer Management in the UK? 

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Hi Laura

As a valued member of the volunteering community, your experience and perspective are vital.

We invite you to take part in a new survey from Rosterfy aimed at understanding the current challenges, opportunities, and technology needs facing volunteer managers across the UK.

This is more than just a survey — it's part of a broader initiative to drive positive change in the sector. Your input will help:

Inform best practices across the industry

Shape the development of future technology solutions

Contribute to a comprehensive industry report, launching this Autumn

The survey takes less than 10 minutes, and as a thank you for your time, you'll have the chance to enter our prize draw to win:

🎁 A £200 Amazon voucher
🎁 Or one of three £100 Amazon vouchers

Click on the image above to take the survey

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The Safer Programme is part of the Norfolk Safeguarding Children Partnership. 

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The Safer Programme is part of the Norfolk Safeguarding Children Partnership. 

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Safer provides advice, information and training on all aspects of safeguarding children.

Any organisation or group working with children and or young people under 18 in Norfolk can become a member.

More information and how to join can be found via this link

https://norfolklscp.org.uk/safer

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Volunteer Coordinator Meeting Notes 21/05/25

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Volunteer Coordinator Meeting Notes 21/05/25

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Woodland Trust are offering free tree packs to schools and community groups across Norfolk, to support tree equity and bring people together through nature.

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Woodland Trust are offering free tree packs to schools and community groups across Norfolk, to support tree equity and bring people together through nature.

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Why apply?

• Free of charge – tree packs are fully funded

• Educational value – ideal for outdoor learning and sustainability projects

• Community benefit – enhance biodiversity and create greener environments

Follow the link to find out more!

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We’re giving away hundreds of thousands of trees

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Volunteer Coordinator Meeting Notes 06/02/25

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Volunteer Coordinator Meeting Notes 06/02/25

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New Padlet: Resources for Trustees/Board members/Non-Executive Directors 

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New Padlet: Resources for Trustees/Board members/Non-Executive Directors 

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Check out our new Padlet of resources designed to help Trustees/Board members/Non-Executive directors.

Please do feel free to comment/add and invite others to join the network to get access to all our Padlets.

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With this scheme VCSEs nominate volunteers and they get offered a free hotel stay! Click on the link for more details.

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Unsold Hotel Rooms for Volunteer Recognition-Room to Reward

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A unique volunteer recognition charity. Hotels donate unsold rooms. Charities nominate volunteers for a reward break. We make it happen!

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HEAR Campaign - Supporting employees who may be suffering domestic abuse.

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HEAR Campaign - Supporting employees who may be suffering domestic abuse.

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HEAR Campaign

organisations across Norfolk are being asked To sign the HEAR pledge to help employees who might be suffering domestic abuse.

The HEAR campaign calls on employers to break the silence around domestic abuse and HEAR help and provide support to their staff on this important issue.

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We're asking organisations across Norfolk to sign the Help Educate Awareness Respond (HEAR) Pledge to help employees who might be suffering domestic abuse.

The HEAR campaign calls on employers to break the silence around domestic abuse and HEAR, help and provide support to their staff on this important issue.

By signing the pledge below, your organisation agrees to:

Provide access to specialist support for your employees

Make sure your staff get the right training, so they know how to help colleagues

Not tolerate domestic abuse in any form

Make sure your workplace is supportive for colleagues who experience domestic abuse

Review your policies and processes around domestic abuse to make sure they are implemented correctly

The campaign was launched by the Domestic Abuse and Sexual Violence Group in Norfolk for White Ribbon Day 2020 (opens new window) . The success of the campaign has meant it has continued well beyond this date with dozens of employers, representing tens of thousands of employees, signing up to date.

The HEAR pledge

We pledge to break the silence around domestic abuse and HEAR, help and provide support in the workplace.

Help

Every employer has a duty to provide access to organisations who can help employees.

We will ensure colleagues affected by domestic abuse are given access to the right specialist support.

Educate

Every employer should ensure the right training is provided.

We will make sure the right training is provided to staff to know what steps to take to support colleagues.

Awareness

Every employer has a responsibility to be aware of domestic abuse.

We will not tolerate domestic abuse in any form and will provide a supportive workplace for colleagues who experience such abuse.

Respond

Every employer should ensure the right policies are in place to respond to domestic abuse. We will review our policies and processes and ensure they are implemented correctly.

Pledge your support

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Pledge now to help your employees who might be suffering domestic abuse

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Our Corporate Volunteering Networking event at Marble Hall!🏛️

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Our Corporate Volunteering Networking event at Marble Hall!🏛️

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A quick video with highlights from our event bringing together businesses and VCSEs to learn about corporate volunteering and build mutually beneficial relationships 🙂

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Do you recruit, support or work with volunteers in Norfolk? 📢

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Do you recruit, support or work with volunteers in Norfolk? 📢

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Have thoughts & experiences to share on how this is going?

Last year, Voluntary Norfolk research into the local volunteering landscape fed into the Norfolk Vision for Volunteering. The Vision highlights how volunteering has changed & how organisations are adapting - or need to - so they can attract & keep volunteers. 🌱

We now need to update the picture so new initiatives and support can be developed to benefit all local VCSEs. If we have the data we can make the case to draw down resources to enable volunteering in Norfolk & Waveney to grow and flourish! 💪

Please take 3 mins to tell us your views by Mon 21st October: https://lnkd.in/ehixBCg2

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Please take the time to complete our survey. Your feedback is important.

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Does your organisation offer work placements in Norwich? 

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Does your organisation offer work placements in Norwich? 

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Brighter Futures is supporting people back to work through work placements and volunteering - if you can offer a work placement in Norwich, do reach out and let us know - Contact Eleanor Burns Eleanor.Burns@voluntarynorfolk.org.uk

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Volunteer Coordinators meeting notes 19_09_24 

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Volunteer Coordinators meeting notes 19_09_24 

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NCC Road Safety Team - Offering upskilling for volunteer managers 

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NCC Road Safety Team - Offering upskilling for volunteer managers 

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NCC's road safety team have offered volunteer managers the opportunity to upskill themselves with how they manage/support volunteers travel; this could include what kind of policies they might need in place and the opportunities available. We’ve also got, of course, the stay focused campaign which can also help volunteers to drive safely and focused and avoid driving on autopilot.

Contact the Road Safety Team for more information.

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Road safety in Norfolk - Norfolk County Council

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Find out about the work we do to reduce the number of people killed on our roads, including campaigns, training and courses

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The Joint Norfolk and Suffolk Restorative Justice Hub and Offender Diversion Team (ODT)

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The Joint Norfolk and Suffolk Restorative Justice Hub and Offender Diversion Team (ODT)

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Could your organisation benefit from working with The Joint Norfolk and Suffolk Restorative Justice Hub and Offender Diversion Team (ODT)?

This team at Norfolk Police process all adult out of court resolutions (OOCR) across Norfolk and Suffolk. The team issue community resolutions and conditional cautions, typically these involve first-time offenders for low-level offences.

Adam Smith, Restorative Justice PC explained more:

“At the core of OOCR is rehabilitation and reparation. All those issued an OOCR have completed an offender needs assessment, accepting responsibility for the crime and the harm caused as a result. Our team is introducing a community reparation condition to our framework which would provide a steady stream of participants to voluntary groups across Norfolk and in turn have a positive effect on our communities.”

Adam is keen to hear from any organisation keen to link up, and benefit from this opportunity. Individuals would provide a minimum of 4-6 hours voluntary work in the community.

To express interest or find out more, please contact: Adam.Smith@Norfolk.police.uk

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The Digital Inclusion service is available to anyone of any age who either needs a device, cannot afford to pay for data, needs support to learn how to use the device or all of the above.  The service is available in North, West and East Norfolk plus Thetford area.  They are hoping if they can demonstrate sufficient demand, to expand into Norwich but for the time being it won’t be available in that area.

Anyone of any age can access this.  It is not means tested, client’s don’t have to produce ID or banks statements.

The service can provide:

1:1 lessons if client has a device but doesn’t know how to use it (normally in libraries but in exceptional circumstances can deliver in a home)

Supply basic smartphone, with a sim card which includes data.  Sim card will last for 6 months but can be renewed for another 6 months if client is still not in a position to pay.

Gift refurbished laptops, again can supply data to go with them if needed.

Hoping to come in the future is Alexa devices and tablets.

Phones and laptops take about 2/3 weeks to come through as they are built to order.  The phones are very basic, can call/text and use internet and they can either have Facebook App or WhatsApp but not both as they don’t have the memory to handle both apps.

If someone just needs the device and doesn’t need any help & support to use them, the service will drop the device off and then close.

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If you're recruiting staff CBR Jobs Board can help 

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If you're recruiting staff CBR Jobs Board can help 

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find out more about via the link above.

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Charity Jobs Board | CBR Business Solutions

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Job advertising service for the Voluntary, Community and Social Enterprise sector in Norfolk. Helping you recruit the best candidates.

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Not a question but worth looking into. - Discounts for charity workers and volunteers! 

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Not a question but worth looking into. - Discounts for charity workers and volunteers! 

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Charity Worker Discounts: Exclusive Discounts, Offers & Codes

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How can I recruit more volunteers effectively? Hear from our Get InVOLved Norfolk platform developers Deedmob 

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How can I recruit more volunteers effectively? Hear from our Get InVOLved Norfolk platform developers Deedmob 

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Volunteer recruitment is essential for any organisation, but finding the right people can be challenging. This guide offers insights and strategies to navigate this process effectively.

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Mastering volunteer recruitment is key to successful volunteer management. Finding the right volunteers can be a challenge, but this guide is here to simplify the process for you. Volunteer recruitment is crucial for all - businesses, nonprofits, individuals, and social movements alike.

This article will break down volunteer recruitment: its definition, its importance, and strategies for success. We'll also look into volunteer motivations, helping you attract the right fit for your needs.

Whether you're starting or refining your strategy, this guide aims to elevate your recruitment efforts. Let's begin!

What Is Volunteer Recruitment?

Volunteer recruitment involves finding, attracting, and choosing people ready to donate their time and talents to a cause. It's a vital strategy for any volunteer program, ensuring you have the support for tasks big and small.

The recruitment process involves three main parties:

Potential volunteers

Organisations or individuals seeking help

Volunteer brokerage services, such as volunteer centres or councils

This article will focus on how volunteer centres or councils (CVSs) play a pivotal role in volunteer recruitment.

Why Is Volunteer Recruitment Important?

For volunteer centers, recruitment is essential. It helps you guarantee a constant flow of volunteers that are eager to support your missions. Success depends on creating a welcoming, diverse, and accessible environment that meets volunteers' needs and preferences.

By crafting the right setting, you can connect volunteers with suitable opportunities, leading to impactful projects and rewarding experiences for everyone involved.

Moreover, a strong recruitment strategy strengthens the diversity and inclusivity of talent in the volunteer community. It also prepares you to mobilise a positive force quickly, for example, during crisis situations.

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Moreover, it enables volunteer centres to meet the ever-growing demand for support from voluntary organisations and community initiatives. This opens up the doors for voluntary organisations to get access to untapped knowledge and capacity, which ultimately leads to a stronger and more resilient Third Sector.

To underline the importance of volunteers for society, we could look at the value of the volunteering sector. It is estimated that in the UK, the value of volunteering is a staggering 324 billion, which is approximately 14.5% of the countries' GDP. This means that the voluntary sector is one of the biggest drivers of the economy and society!

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What Organisations Are Looking For Volunteers?

As a voluntary organisation, you play a crucial role in bridging the gap between individuals who want to offer their time and organisations in need of volunteer support. The spectrum of organisations seeking volunteers spans various sectors, each with unique missions and activities. These organisations include, but are definitely not limited to:

Charities and Non-Profit Organisations: These organisations operate in fields like healthcare, education, poverty reduction, environmentalism, and social services. Volunteers are the backbone of these organisations, enabling them to efficiently deliver their programmes and services.

Community Organisations: Local community centres, neighbourhood groups, youth clubs, and grassroots movements often seek volunteers for organising events, leading community projects, assisting vulnerable groups, and fostering social unity within neighbourhoods.

Sports Clubs and Recreational Facilities: From amateur sports clubs to recreational parks, and youth sports initiatives, volunteers play a pivotal role. They help by coaching, event organisation, facility upkeep, and advocating for active, healthy lifestyles within the community.

Environmental and Conservation Groups: Volunteers are crucial for environmental charities, wildlife sanctuaries, conservation efforts, and sustainability campaigns. They contribute through habitat restoration, wildlife monitoring, environmental education, and advocacy to safeguard our natural resources and biodiversity.

Faith-Based Organisations: Various religious groups and charities offer numerous opportunities to participate. These include community outreach, caring for the elderly, humanitarian efforts, and social justice, reflecting their dedication to community service.

Educational Institutions: Schools and universities not only seek but also generate a significant number of volunteers. Whether it's aiding in the library, supervising playtimes, or providing extracurricular support, educational bodies constantly welcome volunteers to foster the next generation.

In essence, any organisation looking to enhance its events, projects, or day-to-day operations benefits immensely from volunteer support. By connecting these organisations with potential volunteers, you contribute significantly towards achieving their goals, making a tangible difference as a volunteer liaison.

What Motivates People To Volunteer?

Why do people volunteer? The reasons are as varied as the volunteers themselves, but there are some overarching similarities. Research highlights a range of motivations including altruism, the wish to contribute to the community, personal satisfaction, acquiring new skills, building social networks, and finding a sense of purpose ( Bang & Ross, 2009; Shy, 2010). Some are driven by passions or personal growth and exploration. Recognising and catering to these diverse motivations is essential for effective volunteer recruitment and engagement.

The National Council for Voluntary Organisations (NCVO)'s " Time Well Spent 2023 report" sheds light on these motivations. It reveals that the predominant reason people volunteer is the desire to make a real difference. This has remained stable from 2019 to 2023, with 40% of participants indicating a drive to improve things or help others as their main motivation. The connection and significance of the cause and availability of spare time also play crucial roles in encouraging people to volunteer. This emphasises a combination of personal fulfilment and practical contribution as fundamental motivators.

Additionally, the report explains that motivations across different demographics vary. Younger volunteers (aged 18 to 24) often seek opportunities for career progression or gaining employability skills, whereas older volunteers (55+) are more motivated by community needs or personal requests for help. Social background also influences volunteering patterns, with more affluent individuals volunteering more frequently. Gender differences are apparent too, with women placing higher importance on the cause compared to men. These insights once again emphasise the need for personalised recruitment and retention strategies.

The Benefits Of Volunteering

Volunteering is associated with benefits at all levels: for the individual volunteers, the organisations they assist, and society at large. Let's break down these advantages:

For Volunteers:

Personal Growth: Volunteers acquire invaluable experience and learn new skills, setting the stage for both personal and professional development.

Networking: It opens doors to new social networks, enriching volunteers' lives and potentially leading to new career opportunities.

Well-being: Engaging in volunteer work boosts mental and physical health, increases life satisfaction, and can significantly reduce feelings of depression (Yeung, Zhang & Kim, 2018).

Impact: Volunteers have the unique chance to contribute meaningfully to causes close to their hearts, making a tangible difference in the world.

For Organisations:

Expanded Capabilities: A diverse volunteer workforce enhances an organisation's ability to deliver services, broadening its impact.

Community Engagement: Volunteer involvement strengthens community ties and promotes social inclusion, paving the way for personal and community development.

Fresh Perspectives: Volunteers often bring innovative ideas that can refine and energise an organisation's efforts, leading to more effective and efficient operations.

Tailored Support: For organisations to harness these benefits fully, it's crucial to customise recruitment and support strategies to meet the diverse needs and motivations of volunteers.

For Society:

Collective Growth: A vibrant volunteer sector contributes to the development of both individuals and groups, fostering a sense of unity and shared purpose.

Resilience: The COVID-19 pandemic saw a rise in volunteering, reflecting its role in adapting to and thriving amidst societal shifts and challenges (European Economic & Social Committee).

Social Cohesion: Volunteering underpins inclusivity, solidarity, and active participation in community life, echoing deeply held societal values.

In essence, volunteering acts as a means to do good. It enriches lives and communities and presents a win-win-win scenario where individuals, organisations, and society flourish together.

Different Types Of Volunteers

The volunteering workforce consists of many different individuals, each bringing their own set of preferences and motivations. Understanding these differences is key to effectively recruiting and engaging volunteers.

While volunteers can often fit into multiple categories, identifying their primary traits helps tailor your recruitment strategy effectively. For instance, a corporate volunteer (linked to employment) seeking opportunities (search intent) for short-term involvement (commitment level) with a focus on skill development (skill level), within the working age demographic (age group), and motivated by practical outcomes (values), requires a specific approach.

Commitment: Flexibility vs. Long-Term Engagement

Flex Volunteers: These individuals prefer short-term, low-commitment activities, such as micro-volunteering tasks. They value flexibility and may participate on an ad-hoc basis.

Organisation Role Volunteers: In contrast, these volunteers are prepared for a longer-term commitment, dedicating their time and efforts to further the goals and mission of an organisation. They often take on significant roles and responsibilities.

Role Availability: Active vs. Passive vs. Crisis Volunteers

Active Volunteers: These are the go-getters, actively seeking out opportunities that match their skills and interests through various platforms and events.

Passive Volunteers: These individuals prefer to be approached with opportunities, often unsure of where to start or lacking the time to actively search.

Crisis Volunteers: Distinctly, crisis volunteers are those who may not seek regular volunteering opportunities but are ready to step in during times of crisis.

Employment: Corporate vs. Non-Corporate Volunteers

Corporate Volunteers are individuals who participate in volunteering through their employer's corporate social responsibility (CSR) initiatives. They typically take part in group events or apply their professional skills to benefit various causes, facilitated by their respective companies.

Non-Corporate Volunteers (Regular Volunteers) volunteer on a personal basis, independent of their employment. They might connect with organisations through community groups, religious institutions, or directly, using online platforms or personal networks.

If you want to know more about the differences between regular and corporate volunteers, make sure to read this article. If you want to know all the ins and outs of recruiting and engaging with them, you should find everything you need in this article.

Skill Level: Skills-Based vs. Supportive Volunteers

Skills-Based Volunteers offer their professional expertise and qualifications to support specific projects or initiatives requiring their skill set, such as legal, graphic design, or IT support.

Supportive Volunteers may not have, or want to use their specialised skills but are essential for their time, energy, and willingness to assist in various roles, contributing significantly to the success of events and projects.

Age Group: Young, Working, and Retired Volunteers

Young Volunteers often engage in volunteering to gain experience, enhance their CVs, and make a positive impact. They might also participate in youth programmes like the Duke of Edinburgh Award.

Working Volunteers balance their volunteering with employment, integrating their desire to contribute with their professional and personal commitments.

Retired Volunteers bring a wealth of experience and skills, dedicating their newfound time to giving back to the community, often driving forward meaningful initiatives.

Values: Understanding Volunteer Motivations‍

Motivaction (2023) identifies four distinct value-driven volunteer types:

Duty-Bound Volunteers are characterised by a strong sense of loyalty and tradition, valuing security, and solidarity, often found among older demographics.

Structure Seekers focus on their personal and family lives, desiring recognition and a government that provides clear boundaries.

Pragmatists view the world as a realm of opportunities, focusing on personal experiences and achievements.

Responsible Citizens are self-reliant, socially engaged, and see politics as a means to contribute to the common good and realise personal ideals.

By recognising these diverse motivations and backgrounds, organisations can create more effective and fulfilling volunteer opportunities, aligning with individual preferences and contributing to a more engaged, motivated volunteer workforce.

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Developing An Effective Volunteer Strategy

By now, you understand the volunteer recruitment landscape. It's time to delve into crafting an effective strategy to actually recruit your volunteers.

The key to successful volunteer recruitment lies in understanding your organisation's needs, clearly articulating its mission, and detailing the roles available to volunteers. This involves reaching out through diverse channels such as online platforms, community gatherings, or through the power of word-of-mouth, to connect with potential volunteers whose interests and capabilities align with your needs. A proactive approach to communication and support throughout the recruitment process is essential for fostering a dedicated volunteer community.

Taking the First Steps: Taking Stock

The journey to attracting new volunteers begins with a thorough assessment of your organisation's needs. This entails evaluating the tasks, projects, and events requiring support and identifying the skills and expertise necessary for each role. Engage with staff and stakeholders to uncover areas where volunteers could significantly boost your capacity and impact.

Setting clear, SMART goals-for example, recruiting 8 volunteers within 2 months for an appreciation event-will provide direction and facilitate efficient resource allocation.

These questions might help you establish the needs of your organisation to shape your strategy:

How many volunteers are currently helping your organisation?

How many hours do they put in?

What are the jobs they are working on?

Are any volunteers performing specialised tasks?

What are the long-term ambitions of your regular volunteers?

Are there any new opportunities?

Will any positions open up in the foreseeable future?

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Defining Volunteer Roles Clearly

Develop detailed descriptions for each volunteer position, specifying responsibilities, objectives, and the impact of these roles. Include necessary skills, qualifications, and the benefits of volunteering with your organisation, using language that resonates with your target volunteers.

For instance, to attract student volunteers, highlight the role's contribution to skill development and employability. Similarly, when seeking flex volunteers, clarify the commitment required and the tasks involved. Tailoring your messaging to different volunteer types is crucial for effective engagement.

Adopt a dynamic, multi-channel approach to promote your volunteer opportunities, targeting a broad audience. This includes leveraging your organisation's digital presence, engaging on social media, distributing newsletters, and tapping into local community networks. Creating compelling content that underscores the meaningful impact and benefits of volunteering is key to drawing potential volunteers.

A deep dive into the different communication channels:

Organisation's Platform: Feature volunteer opportunities prominently on your website, providing detailed role descriptions and how to get involved. For tips on crafting appealing volunteer pages, consider these insights from our Customer Success Manager, Lioba.

Social Media: Use platforms like Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, LinkedIn, and TikTok to share stories, testimonials, and news about volunteering opportunities. Explore effective social media strategies to boost engagement with potential volunteers.

Newsletters: Keep your subscribers informed with regular updates on volunteering opportunities, success stories, and events, personalising content to match their interests.

Local Community Networks: Collaborate with schools, businesses, and community organisations to reach a wider audience.

Printed Materials: Utilise flyers, posters, and other printed materials in community hotspots to raise awareness.

Word of Mouth: Encourage your network to share information about volunteering opportunities, leveraging personal connections and community involvement.

Community Events: Participate in or host events to directly engage with potential volunteers, providing immediate opportunities to sign up.

Remember, the effectiveness of each channel varies with your target audience. For instance, younger volunteers may prefer TikTok or WhatsApp, while corporate volunteers and pragmatists might be more effectively reached through community networks and events. Experiment and evaluate which channels yield the best results for connecting with your desired volunteer demographic.

Engage Prospective Volunteers

Creating a welcoming and inclusive environment is crucial for engaging prospective volunteers. It's important to respond quickly to enquiries and application, providing clear information about volunteer roles and expectations. Hosting informational sessions, open houses, or virtual meetings can introduce potential volunteers to your organisation's mission, values, and culture effectively.

Tailoring your approach to the types of volunteers you aim to attract is key. For those interested in long-term organisational roles, conducting interviews or assessments can help identify the best fit based on their skills and interests. Meanwhile, for flex volunteers seeking minimal commitment, streamline the process with an easy application, minimal requirements, and flexible participation options.

Facilitating Volunteer Training and Onboarding

A structured training and onboarding process is essential to equip volunteers with the necessary knowledge and skills for their roles. Orientation sessions should cover organisational policies, procedures, and role-specific training. Providing ongoing support and opportunities for feedback and skill development is crucial for volunteers to feel valued and integrated. Peer learning and collaboration also play a significant role in building a supportive volunteer community.

Recognising and Retaining Volunteers

A thoughtful volunteer recognition and retention strategy is vital for appreciating volunteers' contributions. From personalised thank-you notes to recognition events, there are numerous ways to show gratitude. Creating opportunities for social interaction and professional networking can also strengthen the volunteer community. Seeking regular feedback from volunteers helps identify improvement areas, underscoring your commitment to their satisfaction and growth.

For creative ideas on recognising volunteers, this article might inspire and guide your efforts in showing appreciation effectively.

To conclude, volunteer recruitment is fundamental to successful volunteer management, underpinning the strength and diversity of volunteer communities. By employing targeted communication and engagement strategies, organisations can attract, engage, and retain volunteers, maximising their impact. This holistic approach to volunteer recruitment and management fosters a culture of service and collaboration, contributing significantly to the vitality of the Third Sector.

About Deedmob

Deedmob is dedicated to empowering communities through volunteering, aiming to mobilise one billion people towards social action. Our belief in the power of volunteering to strengthen community resilience is backed by a robust digital infrastructure and a wealth of expertise. Discover how Deedmob's innovative platform and tools can revolutionise your volunteer recruitment and engagement efforts, creating a movement for positive change.

Ready to elevate your volunteer recruitment strategy? Our experts are here to guide you. Request a demo today to learn how you can efficiently find, match, recruit, retain, and inspire volunteers, leveraging an all-in-one platform tailored to your needs.

With a diverse background encompassing Political Science, Medicine, and Business Administration, Gerbrand offers a unique blend of perspectives that empowers our partners to reach their social impact goals - whether they are local governments, large corporations, or social organisations. As part of his role at Deedmob, he focuses on expanding the impact ecosystem through extensive research on volunteering. Beyond his job commitments, Gerbrand is deeply passionate about sustainability, evident through his Youth Ambassadorship for the UN SDGs. In his free time, he loves playing chess, running and cycling, and dreams of finishing the Marmotte.

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Discover the essentials of effective volunteer recruitment in Deedmob's comprehensive guide. Learn strategies for attracting, engaging, and retaining volunteers to enhance your organisation's impact and foster a thriving community of service.

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Does anyone have a volunteer cash handling policy they would be willing to share?

Please let us know either here on the Padlet or at volunteercentre@voluntrynorfolk.org.uk

Many thanks :)

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Our volunteers need to have Food Safety & Hygiene training and I wonder if you can point me in the right direction for a reliable online provider who isn’t going to charge the earth for the training or the certification?

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Notes from the volunteer Coordinators meeting 6/03/2024 

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Notes from the volunteer Coordinators meeting 6/03/2024 

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Reaching out to volunteers using the Volunteer Pool

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Reaching out to volunteers using the Volunteer Pool

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The Volunteer Pool is a great to reach out to volunteers looking for roles that meet the activity and causes of your roles.

If you need additional support contact

laura.holland@voluntarynorfolk.org.uk

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In principle, you can reach out to anyone in the volunteer pool. However, you can only reach out to someone once per activity and you cannot make more than 5 'reachouts' per day, per organization.

Conversely, a volunteer cannot have more than 5 open registrations at the same time. This is to prevent potential volunteers from being approached too often and leaving the pool.

In addition, your 'reachout' must always be linked to an opportunity. This is to prevent volunteers from being spammed without a clear reason.
What should I pay attention to if I want to approach volunteers in the pool?
You have the best chance of finding a volunteer if you take their wishes into account. You can see in their profile which interests they have and which activities they enjoy. Look at that and read the piece of text in which they introduce themselves.

In addition, it is useful to look at which language someone has and the range within which someone is searching. You can also see whether someone is a member of organizations and whether that person has already done activities before (via this platform). These are all hints that can give an indication of how likely it is that someone is interested.
Are all users in the volunteer pool?
No, there are plenty of volunteers who have not signed up for the volunteer pool. They prefer to search by themselves or be assisted by one of our employees.

The moment a volunteer is matched via the volunteer pool, he/she is automatically removed from the pool. The goal is to have only people who are actively looking in the pool.
I am not receiving any responses, what now?
People automatically get reminders if they don't respond. If someone never responds to notices, that person will be automatically removed. This way, the pool only remains filled with people who are really looking.

Our tip is always: take a good look at the profiles and try to approach people as specifically as possible. Nobody likes to be approached just like that. You can also try to adjust your activity (description / images) to make it as attractive as possible.

Moreover, people also start looking for a suitable activity themselves, and not just on this platform. So keep sharing your activity. Especially on social media, maybe the perfect volunteer is not yet familiar with our platform!

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Post an opportunity and find the perfect candidate in our volunteer pool.

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Safeguarding awareness - Train  the Trainer 

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Safeguarding awareness - Train  the Trainer 

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The aim of this workshop is to train staff to deliver safeguarding adults awareness training to staff and volunteers in their own organisation.

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Same role different location? Duplicate the role, not your work. 

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Same role different location? Duplicate the role, not your work. 

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In this video, I show you how to duplicate your roles, which is great if you have a role that's over multiple locations. I demonstrate how to use the duplicate button to quickly populate everything in the role from the previous one, and then make the necessary changes, such as changing the location.

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Do you have opportunities suitable for corporate volunteers?

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Do you have opportunities suitable for corporate volunteers?

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If you have tasks or activities suitable for corporate volunteers but don't have the time to advertise and manage requests, let us help. We can advertise them for you, check out the link for more information.

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Make the most out of corporate volunteers with Get InVOLved Norfolk

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Trusted Suppliers - This list of trusted suppliers,  providing specialist products and services that can save your organisation time and money, and they have lots of experience working with voluntary organisations

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Trusted Suppliers - This list of trusted suppliers,  providing specialist products and services that can save your organisation time and money, and they have lots of experience working with voluntary organisations

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NCVO Trusted Suppliers list

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Our trusted suppliers are experts who can save your organisation time and money. They all have lots of experience working with charities and voluntary organisations. Many also offer exclusive deals for NCVO members.

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Our trusted suppliers are experts who can save your organisation time and money

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We have compiled a summary of volunteering resources, guidance and advice from various sources that we hope you find helpful.

Please contact us on volunteercentre@voluntarynorfolk.org.uk

if you need information about a topic that isn’t covered here or if you would like find out more about a particular issue.

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We have compiled a summary of volunteering resources, guidance and advice from various sources that we hope you find helpful.

Please contact us on [email protected] if you need information about a topic that isn't covered here or if you would like find out more about a particular issue.

Please note that the resources provided on this page are for guidance only and should not be considered legal or professional advice. Organisations are responsible for ensuring their policies and practices comply with all relevant laws and regulations. For specific advice, please consult a qualified professional or relevant regulatory body.

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12 creative ways to appreciate volunteers, a great read, hope you find it inspiring

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12 Creative Ideas to Appreciate Volunteers - Deedmob

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Find 12 creative ideas to appreciate your volunteers, with pros, cons and requirements!

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Laptops for Loan -  If you have clients who need quick free access to a laptop for applying for jobs, study or just everyday use then Norfolk County Council’s libraries can help.

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Laptops for Loan -  If you have clients who need quick free access to a laptop for applying for jobs, study or just everyday use then Norfolk County Council’s libraries can help.

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This exciting Laptops for Loan initiative means that library members over 16 can now borrow a laptop just as easily as borrowing a book.

Free to borrow, the laptops come pre-installed with essential applications like Google, Zoom and Microsoft where you can log in or register for an account, making virtual meetings and interviews a breeze.

Designed to be accessible, however tech-savvy someone is, the laptops provide a safe environment for people to develop their digital skills. And people can choose whether to use them in the library or take them home.

To borrow a laptop, speak to a member of the library team. Laptops have a 2-week loan period but if anyone wants to borrow for a short time, that is fine too. Returning the laptops is straightforward, and people are very welcome to borrow them again in the future.

Available now in all Norfolk libraries, just ask a member of staff.

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Volunteer first - Young volunteers handbook 

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Volunteer first - Young volunteers handbook 

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NCVO - Mental health and wellbeing for you and your team

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NCVO - Mental health and wellbeing for you and your team

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Build your understanding of an employers' responsibilities for mental health and wellbeing

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Volunteer drivers - information regarding insurance 

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Volunteer drivers - information regarding insurance 

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What is ESV and what are the benefits? check out this blog from CBR Business Solutions 

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What is ESV and what are the benefits? check out this blog from CBR Business Solutions 

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We've seen recent growth in Employer Supported Volunteering (ESV) opportunities and interest from local businesses to provide this for their staff.

So what is ESV, what are the benefits and how can you introduce this into your workplace?

Employer Supported Volunteering:

ESV is a scheme offered by employees to their staff, giving them the opportunity to take paid time off to volunteer during usual working hours. This could be with a charity or community group of the employee's choice or a place arranged by the employer.

What are the benefits of ESV?

There are many benefits to businesses, employees and the wider community for considering ESV for your business:

An opportunity for staff to learn new skills and gain valuable experiences, which can be beneficial within the workplace

A fun alternative to an away day, bringing teams together for shared experiences and strengthening connections

Increased staff motivation by building a sense of pride in working together to support local community projects

Support the health and wellbeing of staff by volunteering

Building your reputation within the community as a socially responsible company

Attracting new employees and retaining existing staff by providing meaningful opportunities

How can you introduce this into your workplace?

As an employer, you can decide what to include in your ESV policy. Give consideration to:

Time off. Do you offer flexible working or paid time off for x amount of hours per year dependant upon contracted hours?

How do you facilitate ESV? Do you coordinate group days, allow reasonable access to work phones etc to make arrangements?

Provide clear guidance about who is responsible whilst they volunteer.

Are there certain opportunities that align with your business or conflict?

Any prior agreements around promotional opportunities or restrictions to consider?

Who needs to agree time off? What forms need completing? Do you monitor and evaluate?

As with all new policies, developing one that is right for your organisation takes consideration, but a well-managed ESV programme can bring benefits to everyone involved!

A team from Voluntary Norfolk recently helped out at Pact Animal Sanctuary using an ESV day.

Emma, who works for Voluntary Norfolk and CBR Business Solutions said "I had such a great day and came away with that warm fuzzy feeling and sense of achievement you get from volunteering. This day was brilliant on so many levels; we got to support the amazing team at PACT, had some cuddle time with the animals in need, but I also got to spend some quality time away from the office with my lovely colleagues. I feel really thankful to work for an organisation that enables and supports us to have ESV days."
Send an email to our HR team - HR@cbrsolutions.org.uk
If you would like support implementing an ESV policy within your workplace, our MCIPD qualified HR consultants can support you with this.

If you're interested in volunteering or looking for volunteering opportunities, take a look at Volunteering opportunities in Norfolk | Get InVOLved Norfolk

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What is ESV and what are the benefits for your team? - CBR Business Solutions

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So what is Employer Supported Volunteering, what are the benefits and how can you introduce this into your workplace?

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We have now started inviting businesses to join the Get InVOLved Norfolk platform making it easier for their employees to find regular volunteering roles as well as those one off group activities.

If your organisation has opportunities suitable for groups, even if they are request only please do add them to the platform and tick either suitable for groups and teams or suitable for corporate volunteers tick boxes so that we can help you find local businesses that will support your cause.

If you charge for these activities don’t let that put you off! Do still add them and make it clear that there is a charge to organise these types of events. We understand that this is a costly and time-consuming activity and businesses should be aware of this to.

If you have any questions, please do get in touch have a fabulous Easter and see you soon laura.holland@voluntarynorfolk.org.uk

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Mobilising Voluntary Action Research Report

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Mobilising Voluntary Action Research Report

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This briefing presents early findings from research capturing the experiences of those working with volunteers within organisations and communities in England during the- Covid-19 pandemic. It provides a snapshot of the current challenges and opportunities faced, and reflections on how to support volunteering as we move towards recovery. The four key themes explored in this briefing are:

Bringing back volunteers

Sustaining the involvement of new volunteers

Volunteer diversity and inclusion

Collaboration and the importance of 'local'

Click here to read the report

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This briefing presents early findings from research capturing the experiences of those working with volunteers within organisations and communities in England during the- Covid-19 pandemic. It provides a snapshot of the current challenges and opportunities faced, and reflections on how to support volunteering as we move towards recovery.

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Notes from the Volunteer Coordinators meeting 8/11/2023

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Notes from the Volunteer Coordinators meeting 8/11/2023

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Notes from the Volunteer Coordinators meeting 24/05/2023

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Notes from the Volunteer Coordinators meeting 24/05/2023

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Notes from the Volunteer Coordinators meeting 06/10/22

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Notes from the Volunteer Coordinators meeting 06/10/22

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Notes from the Volunteer Coordinators Meeting 16/06/22

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Notes from the Volunteer Coordinators Meeting 16/06/22

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Notes from the Volunteer Coordinators Meeting 16/03/22

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Notes from the Volunteer Coordinators Meeting 16/03/22

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Notes from the Volunteer Coordinators Meeting 09/12/21

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Notes from the Volunteer Coordinators Meeting 09/12/21

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notes from the Volunteer Coordinators Meeting 15/09/21 

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notes from the Volunteer Coordinators Meeting 15/09/21 

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Notes from the Volunteer Coordinators Meeting 10/06/21

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Notes from the Volunteer Coordinators Meeting 10/06/21

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I'm trying to draw up a comprehensive list of the regular free warm spaces available in the Great Yarmouth borough this winter. If you provide one and it isn't listed on the map yet could you let me know please? anna.heydon@togethernorfolk.org.uk Thanks

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I'm trying to draw up a comprehensive list of the regular free warm spaces available in the Great Yarmouth borough this winter. If you provide one and it isn't listed on the map yet could you let me know please? anna.heydon@togethernorfolk.org.uk Thanks

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Places you can go if you are looking for a warm space, warm welcome and warm drink - all for free!

If your church / group /organisation offers somewhere which welcomes everyone, opens regularly and matches the criteria above then please contact Anna Heydon on anna.heydon@togethernorfolk.org.uk to have it added to the map.

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Great Yarmouth Borough Warm Spaces - Imagine Norfolk Together

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Places you can go if you are looking for a warm space, warm welcome and warm drink - all for free! If your church / group /organisation offers somewhere which welcomes everyone, opens regularly and matches the criteria above then please contact Anna Heydon on anna.heydon@togethernorfolk.org.uk to have it added to the map.

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Enquiry regarding references - Can you help?

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Enquiry regarding references - Can you help?

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I wanted to tap into your experience to see what your views were about the challenges of getting meaningful independent references for new volunteers.

I’m not sure whether you, and the projects you are associated with are having the same problems, but we seem to be having real problems getting anything back, or when it does come back it is so bland as to not be worth the effort.

We are starting to look at alternative methods of vetting, beyond the DBS check.

Are you aware of any other models being used out in volunteer-land that we might adapt?

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Lots of employers are getting in touch looking for opportunities for groups. If you have opportunities suitable for groups please do let us know and add it to the platform and mark it as suitable for groups or teams.

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Do you happen to know of any good and popular websites that would advertise some volunteer roles and that offer boosted listings for roles? We have received an enquiry from an organisation who have some money that they can spend on paid advertising?

If you have any ideas do leave a comment, many thanks :)

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Employer Supported Volunteering - Do you have any activities?

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Employer Supported Volunteering - Do you have any activities?

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A Norwich employer is looking for regular activities for their staff. They are looking for opportunities that can accommodate ideally 5-10 employees at a time between usual office hours and would also like to have a opportunities every month that their employees can sign up for. This can be from multiple organisations.

Can be full or half day

Any activity considered including office based as some staff have mobility issues. (office roles don’t have to be in groups)

Up to 30mins out of Norwich considered.

If you have anything that you would like me to send over to them please do let me know
laura.holland@voluntarynorfolk.org.uk

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We have had an enquiry from a coordinator who is looking at other options to store and manage volunteer rotas and contact details. Has anyone got any tips or systems that are cheap and user friendly? They currently have around 10 regular volunteers so systems like Better Impact would not be cost effective for the numbers. Any thoughts appreciated :)

Many thanks

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Question - thoughts and comments appreciated. 

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Question - thoughts and comments appreciated. 

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regarding Volunteer Coordinator vs Volunteer Manager roles. It would be good to know how much of the Volunteer Management duties sits with a volunteer manager and how much is dealt with by the Volunteer Coordinators or team the volunteer works within?

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Question - has anyone got any thoughts on the below? Many thanks  

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Question - has anyone got any thoughts on the below? Many thanks  

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Have you ever seen a ‘staff as volunteers’ policy or guidance?  We are looking at putting one together and it would be really beneficial to see if any other charities have put one together for their staff to also volunteer.  The main things we think we need to cover/consider is how we recruit and what procedures relate to staff and separately to them as volunteers etc.