Volunteer Recruitment Guidance by National Independent Visitor Network https://padlet.com/ivnetwork/7o424dta1xo0zxx6 Many Independent Visitor services reported a rise in volunteer applications during the Covid-19 pandemic and lock-down periods. This rise has now been reported to drop, with falling numbers affecting some services and shortages of volunteers as a possible response to the cost of living crisis. NIVN has produced this guidance that draws together volunteer promotion/recruitment solutions shared by members at NIVN good practice groups and national conferences. en-us 2023-06-12 13:44:40 UTC 2025-11-04 12:42:29 UTC hello@padlet.com https://padlet.net/icons/png/1f4a1.png Our recommendation ivnetwork https://padlet.com/ivnetwork/7o424dta1xo0zxx6/wish/2621169881 We recommend using a range of offline and online recruitment strategies and content that are generic and also targeted at specific audiences of prospective volunteers.  IVs and children and young people in care can be powerful and influential advocates for your service; consider how you might involve them in this work.  For example, IVs and young people with a flair for social media or design may want to help create a recruitment campaign.  ]]> 2023-06-12 13:49:47 UTC https://padlet.com/ivnetwork/7o424dta1xo0zxx6/wish/2621169881 Flyers and posters that reflect the vision and purpose of your IV scheme to inspire volunteers ivnetwork https://padlet.com/ivnetwork/7o424dta1xo0zxx6/wish/2621171011 Bring them to life with quotes, key words and images. Highlight the difference that befriending can make and other benefits on offer (expenses, training). Think about consistent branding in your design and content.]]> 2023-06-12 13:50:55 UTC https://padlet.com/ivnetwork/7o424dta1xo0zxx6/wish/2621171011 Clear, easily accessible IV role description ivnetwork https://padlet.com/ivnetwork/7o424dta1xo0zxx6/wish/2621179718 Create a clear IV role description that can be easily accessed through a link so that prospective volunteers who wish to access more detailed information on the role, can do so.]]> 2023-06-12 13:59:32 UTC https://padlet.com/ivnetwork/7o424dta1xo0zxx6/wish/2621179718 Targeted Content based on individual anonymised needs ivnetwork https://padlet.com/ivnetwork/7o424dta1xo0zxx6/wish/2621180130 Consider creating content that focuses on individual children/young people’s needs (anonymised). This can be successful to target volunteers in specific areas; with particular skills or characteristics (eg gender, ethnicity).]]> 2023-06-12 14:00:00 UTC https://padlet.com/ivnetwork/7o424dta1xo0zxx6/wish/2621180130 Audio-visual content ivnetwork https://padlet.com/ivnetwork/7o424dta1xo0zxx6/wish/2621181127 Liven up social media and online posts with audio-visual content – videos, podcasts. Utilise NIVN video resources https://www.youtube.com/@nationalindependentvisitor5642

]]> 2023-06-12 14:01:07 UTC https://padlet.com/ivnetwork/7o424dta1xo0zxx6/wish/2621181127 Use QR codes and links ivnetwork https://padlet.com/ivnetwork/7o424dta1xo0zxx6/wish/2621181673 Consider using a QR code that can be scanned and links to further information on your organisation’s website.  Online QR code generators are free; we use www.qr-code-generator.com  This QR code links to IVnetwork website, as an example.  ]]> 2023-06-12 14:01:45 UTC https://padlet.com/ivnetwork/7o424dta1xo0zxx6/wish/2621181673 Community venues and public spaces in and around your LA area ivnetwork https://padlet.com/ivnetwork/7o424dta1xo0zxx6/wish/2621182651 Distribute fliers to community venues and public spaces in and around your local authority area: libraries, sports halls, leisure centres, cafes, community centres, supermarket notice boards. This can be labour intensive; reach out to existing or waiting volunteers to act as ‘Volunteer Ambassadors’ to flier venues. ]]> 2023-06-12 14:02:48 UTC https://padlet.com/ivnetwork/7o424dta1xo0zxx6/wish/2621182651 Local authority website and social media ivnetwork https://padlet.com/ivnetwork/7o424dta1xo0zxx6/wish/2621182943 Local authorities can disseminate your marketing material via their website and social media accounts (Twitter, LinkedIn).  You can request they include a volunteer promotion article or other content in mailouts to local residents.]]> 2023-06-12 14:03:08 UTC https://padlet.com/ivnetwork/7o424dta1xo0zxx6/wish/2621182943 Local newspapers ivnetwork https://padlet.com/ivnetwork/7o424dta1xo0zxx6/wish/2621183189 Create copy to advertise in local newspapers. People like human interest stories; consider inclusion of quotes and soundbites from volunteers, children and young people.]]> 2023-06-12 14:03:26 UTC https://padlet.com/ivnetwork/7o424dta1xo0zxx6/wish/2621183189 Facebook ivnetwork https://padlet.com/ivnetwork/7o424dta1xo0zxx6/wish/2621184233 Facebook can generate lots of interest. Create a page for your service and link to relevant local groups. Include images and quotes. You can also use Facebook to schedule and host a virtual ‘taster’ or information event for prospective volunteers. You cannot turn off the ‘comments’ function but can delete, hide and report inappropriate posts.  You can enable the ‘profanity filter’ in settings.
How do I manage posts for a Facebook group I admin? | Facebook Help Centre
Consider the use of paid Facebook advertising to boost exiting posts or create an advert that is promoted to selected audiences.
https://www.facebook.com/business/tools/ads-manager?content_id=UfkB4YyUm9ccygc&ref=sem_smb&utm_term=facebook%20ads&gclid=EAIaIQobChMI38fQmYCO_wIV2OLtCh2baA9eEAAYAiAAEgJZ5fD_BwE
]]> 2023-06-12 14:04:25 UTC https://padlet.com/ivnetwork/7o424dta1xo0zxx6/wish/2621184233 Eventbrite taster/information sessions for prospective IVs ivnetwork https://padlet.com/ivnetwork/7o424dta1xo0zxx6/wish/2621184729 Eventbrite is an online platform where you can create and advertise events. You can set up an account for free and create a taster event/information session for prospective IVs. This platform is ideal to promote and manage bookings at virtual or face to face events www.eventbrite.co.uk


Note: events for under 25 participants are free, but as of October 2023 any new events with 25+ participants requires either a monthly subscription or a fee of £7.99+ per event.

 

]]> 2023-06-12 14:04:57 UTC https://padlet.com/ivnetwork/7o424dta1xo0zxx6/wish/2621184729 Community events and fairs ivnetwork https://padlet.com/ivnetwork/7o424dta1xo0zxx6/wish/2621185361 Attend different community events and fairs to publicise your service. Consider enlisting the support of willing IVs to do this; current and waiting.  Examples include university volunteering fairs– many universities have volunteering teams who can support you to promote your scheme, or county council fetes and festivals. ]]> 2023-06-12 14:05:18 UTC https://padlet.com/ivnetwork/7o424dta1xo0zxx6/wish/2621185361 Indeed ivnetwork https://padlet.com/ivnetwork/7o424dta1xo0zxx6/wish/2621186131 Many IV schemes post to Indeed to recruit volunteers out of their local area.  Tip! Include the skills and qualities you are looking for to reduce the number of unsuitable applicants. 

We also recommend that you refresh/repost this advert frequently and keep it up-to-date so that it stays relevant and at the top of people's searches.

https://uk.indeed.com/jobs?q=Independent+Visitor+volunteer&l=United+Kingdom&from=searchOnHP&vjk=4970a709f1dc1abe  Nyas, Hertfordshire for male volunteer.

]]> 2023-06-12 14:06:10 UTC https://padlet.com/ivnetwork/7o424dta1xo0zxx6/wish/2621186131 Co-op volunteering site ivnetwork https://padlet.com/ivnetwork/7o424dta1xo0zxx6/wish/2621187207 The site enables you to self-register as a group/service and to post/advertise volunteer roles in your local area. Create a Co-op account, create your group and then post the volunteer vacancies that you have.

To customise the location of vacancies: edit the location in the main group (use region rather than town) and then in the group's description stating which specific areas you're looking for volunteers from.

Here is an example account set up by NIVN National Independent Visitor Network, organised by Jessica Tinwin-Smith - Co-operate (coop.co.uk)
]]> 2023-06-12 14:07:25 UTC https://padlet.com/ivnetwork/7o424dta1xo0zxx6/wish/2621187207 Do-it ivnetwork https://padlet.com/ivnetwork/7o424dta1xo0zxx6/wish/2621187719 NIVN has created a page to drive traffic to our website's local service search function.]]> 2023-06-12 14:08:03 UTC https://padlet.com/ivnetwork/7o424dta1xo0zxx6/wish/2621187719 Reach Volunteering ivnetwork https://padlet.com/ivnetwork/7o424dta1xo0zxx6/wish/2621188109 2023-06-12 14:08:29 UTC https://padlet.com/ivnetwork/7o424dta1xo0zxx6/wish/2621188109 Local authority's marketing and communications team ivnetwork https://padlet.com/ivnetwork/7o424dta1xo0zxx6/wish/2621188769 Build a relationship with the local authority communications and marketing team to support you to a) create marketing material and b) disseminate marketing material.

]]> 2023-06-12 14:09:12 UTC https://padlet.com/ivnetwork/7o424dta1xo0zxx6/wish/2621188769 Volunteer Ambassadors ivnetwork https://padlet.com/ivnetwork/7o424dta1xo0zxx6/wish/2621188970 Cultivate ‘Volunteer Ambassadors’ to support marketing work to promote volunteering.  For example:  reach out to your volunteers with LinkedIn accounts and work with them to create posts to recruit via professional networks.

Ambassadors have had success promoting through ‘word of mouth’ to support in area as well as out of area targeted recruitment.  
]]> 2023-06-12 14:09:28 UTC https://padlet.com/ivnetwork/7o424dta1xo0zxx6/wish/2621188970 Local authority in-house fostering teams ivnetwork https://padlet.com/ivnetwork/7o424dta1xo0zxx6/wish/2621189807 Build relationships with local authority in-house fostering teams to a) develop together a strategy to promote IV volunteering to prospective foster carers looking to gain more experience supporting children and young people in care; b) develop a strategy to promote the IV role via existing foster carers’ networks of family and friends.]]> 2023-06-12 14:10:02 UTC https://padlet.com/ivnetwork/7o424dta1xo0zxx6/wish/2621189807 Children with Disabilities Teams and Adult Services ivnetwork https://padlet.com/ivnetwork/7o424dta1xo0zxx6/wish/2621190059 Build relationships with Children with Disabilities Teams and Adult services to seek their support to develop a strategy to recruit volunteers with specific skills sets.   ]]> 2023-06-12 14:10:20 UTC https://padlet.com/ivnetwork/7o424dta1xo0zxx6/wish/2621190059 Overview ivnetwork https://padlet.com/ivnetwork/7o424dta1xo0zxx6/wish/2621191128 The 2019 and 2022 National Independent Visitor Data Reports highlight that male and Black and minority ethnic volunteers are broadly under-represented in IV schemes. Data returns to the 2021 Freedom of Information request also indicate that low number of volunteers with disabilities are recruited.  We do not have data available on the number of volunteers who are LGBT+ who are recruited as IVs.
 
Solutions shared by NIVN members focus on targeted recruitment. Targeted recruitment needs to consider both content (language and images that reflect and welcome targeted groups) and communication channels.  Remember, people will want to see themselves reflected in your volunteer programme.  These solutions include:
]]> 2023-06-12 14:11:34 UTC https://padlet.com/ivnetwork/7o424dta1xo0zxx6/wish/2621191128 Gendered content (images and text) ivnetwork https://padlet.com/ivnetwork/7o424dta1xo0zxx6/wish/2621191600 There is some evidence to suggest that befriending roles are perceived as more female-oriented and mentoring as male-oriented.  Mentoring may be described as goal-focused and action-oriented, befriending as relational and feeling-based.  

Text in promotional volunteer literature could be adapted to reflect these stereotypical gender norms! Images that show male volunteers, potentially matched with male children, engaged in an activity, may attract more males.]]> 2023-06-12 14:12:09 UTC https://padlet.com/ivnetwork/7o424dta1xo0zxx6/wish/2621191600 Adverts in specialist magazines/online sites ivnetwork https://padlet.com/ivnetwork/7o424dta1xo0zxx6/wish/2621192143 Placing adverts in specialist magazines/online sites aimed at specific groups eg. The Voice newspaper, PinkNews.]]> 2023-06-12 14:12:45 UTC https://padlet.com/ivnetwork/7o424dta1xo0zxx6/wish/2621192143 Community-based organizations ivnetwork https://padlet.com/ivnetwork/7o424dta1xo0zxx6/wish/2621192445 Work with community-based organisations that engage specific cohorts of people to recruit volunteers that are under-represented in your service.   ]]> 2023-06-12 14:13:07 UTC https://padlet.com/ivnetwork/7o424dta1xo0zxx6/wish/2621192445 Advertising in physical spaces attended by under-represented groups ivnetwork https://padlet.com/ivnetwork/7o424dta1xo0zxx6/wish/2621193081 For example, places of worship, barbers, gyms and sports centres, cafes and libraries.]]> 2023-06-12 14:13:47 UTC https://padlet.com/ivnetwork/7o424dta1xo0zxx6/wish/2621193081 Run a 'refer a friend' local campaign ivnetwork https://padlet.com/ivnetwork/7o424dta1xo0zxx6/wish/2621193593 ‘Refer a friend’ local campaign.  Ask existing volunteers from a specific group, eg. males, to refer a male friend.  Provide them with suggested content/images.]]> 2023-06-12 14:14:14 UTC https://padlet.com/ivnetwork/7o424dta1xo0zxx6/wish/2621193593 Professionals ivnetwork https://padlet.com/ivnetwork/7o424dta1xo0zxx6/wish/2621193769 Targeting professionals with specific skills to match with children with disabilities.  Take advice from your local authority Children with Disabilities Team and Adult Service Team. ]]> 2023-06-12 14:14:26 UTC https://padlet.com/ivnetwork/7o424dta1xo0zxx6/wish/2621193769 Targeting volunteers with lived experience ivnetwork https://padlet.com/ivnetwork/7o424dta1xo0zxx6/wish/2621194030 The National Standards for the Provision of Independent Visitor Services say: “Services should encourage the recruitment of volunteers who have personal experience of being in care, as children have stated the additional benefits of being matched with someone who has had similar experiences.”]]> 2023-06-12 14:14:43 UTC https://padlet.com/ivnetwork/7o424dta1xo0zxx6/wish/2621194030 Customisable IV recruitment poster made by NIVN ivnetwork https://padlet.com/ivnetwork/7o424dta1xo0zxx6/wish/2621251054 We've created an editable version of this flyer above using our Right Friend Campaign. You can change the colours, add your own logos/website links/information - click here to view the template (make sure you create a copy so you don't overwrite the original template that everyone will see): https://www.canva.com/design/DAFk8TSnOhU/y9WmLx8xGHKe52gypc6NJw/edit?utm_content=DAFk8TSnOhU&utm_campaign=designshare&utm_medium=link2&utm_source=sharebutton]]> 2023-06-12 15:19:56 UTC https://padlet.com/ivnetwork/7o424dta1xo0zxx6/wish/2621251054 Stakeholder Mapping ivnetwork https://padlet.com/ivnetwork/7o424dta1xo0zxx6/wish/2623555419 Stakeholder mapping can help you identify all of the current potential stakeholders with whom you can engage with (this example is for volunteer recruitment). It is also a helpful tool to visualise the relative effort and impact of different different promotional ideas/stakeholders. Analysing your completed matrix can help you identify which ideas you want to prioritise and which you’d like to backlog or move out of scope.

You can download/view NIVN's volunteer recruitment stakeholder map and the above example stakeholder map that we made using Microsoft Teams Whiteboard at this link: http://my.hdle.it/112839996]]> 2023-06-14 15:22:56 UTC https://padlet.com/ivnetwork/7o424dta1xo0zxx6/wish/2623555419 More example flyers ivnetwork https://padlet.com/ivnetwork/7o424dta1xo0zxx6/wish/2632470861 2023-06-26 11:41:05 UTC https://padlet.com/ivnetwork/7o424dta1xo0zxx6/wish/2632470861 ivnetwork https://padlet.com/ivnetwork/7o424dta1xo0zxx6/wish/2632471036 2023-06-26 11:41:29 UTC https://padlet.com/ivnetwork/7o424dta1xo0zxx6/wish/2632471036 Specific, targeted campaigns https://padlet.com/ivnetwork/7o424dta1xo0zxx6/wish/2684766868 Made specifically for a young person out of area with their interests in mind]]> 2023-09-05 12:05:25 UTC https://padlet.com/ivnetwork/7o424dta1xo0zxx6/wish/2684766868 NIVN Volunteer sharing board on Huddle ivnetwork https://padlet.com/ivnetwork/7o424dta1xo0zxx6/wish/2762572403 Use this folder on Huddle to post any requests around seeking out-of-area volunteers or to share any surplus volunteers you may have!

]]> 2023-10-25 08:59:33 UTC https://padlet.com/ivnetwork/7o424dta1xo0zxx6/wish/2762572403 Leicestershire IV Service recruitment strategy ivnetwork https://padlet.com/ivnetwork/7o424dta1xo0zxx6/wish/2825485795 We spoke with Denise Cole, a Support Worker from Leicestershire County Council’s IV Scheme, to chat about their method of volunteer recruitment, and how since joining the team she’s supported

her colleague Fiona Perry with doing ‘the stuff she’s always wanted to do but not always had the time to do’ such as using a rolling outreach approach with prominent local businesses.

]]> 2023-12-14 17:13:11 UTC https://padlet.com/ivnetwork/7o424dta1xo0zxx6/wish/2825485795 Local football club engagement - Leicester IV Service ivnetwork https://padlet.com/ivnetwork/7o424dta1xo0zxx6/wish/2825486813 This summer, Emma Rodger, the IV Coordinator for Leicester City Council (LCC), brought together young people and IV volunteers at a summertime event with Leicester City Football Club (LCFC).

They had free food and drink, played games, watched the World Cup and even went on a stadium tour!

]]> 2023-12-14 17:14:15 UTC https://padlet.com/ivnetwork/7o424dta1xo0zxx6/wish/2825486813 Change Grow Live Hull IV Scheme ivnetwork https://padlet.com/ivnetwork/7o424dta1xo0zxx6/wish/2826225576 I caught up with Richard Mullins, IV Coordinator for Change Grow Live Hull. Richard has Coordinated the IV scheme for many years and has worked hard to embed it in the local community with councillors and businesses.

]]> 2023-12-15 09:36:38 UTC https://padlet.com/ivnetwork/7o424dta1xo0zxx6/wish/2826225576 IV: Naming and describing the role ivnetwork https://padlet.com/ivnetwork/7o424dta1xo0zxx6/wish/2849070917 Independent Visitor is the name of the role set out in legislation. Feedback from children, young people and volunteers often shows that this name does not explain what the role is and can be a barrier to access to the service.

Many schemes include alternative titles/ sub titles in IV promotional posts/material alongside the formal name. Names shared with us include: Befriender, Buddy, Trusted adult, Friend, Feel Good Volunteer, Volunteer befriender.

 

Nottingham scheme changed the key title of its posts from Independent Visitor to 'Volunteer befriender for children in care'. Application numbers prior to this from quarter 1 were 10 people. These figures then rose to:

Quarter 2 July to Sept – 47 expressed an interest in applying.

Quarter 3 Oct to Dec – 35 expressed an interest in applying.

]]> 2024-01-15 12:52:23 UTC https://padlet.com/ivnetwork/7o424dta1xo0zxx6/wish/2849070917 Volunteer Ambassadors pt. 2 ivnetwork https://padlet.com/ivnetwork/7o424dta1xo0zxx6/wish/2884553869 See this incredible post from a volunteer in Southampton - he reflects on his recent visit with his young person, the benefits of volunteering to both parties and highlights the national shortage of volunteers!!

]]> 2024-02-15 10:06:37 UTC https://padlet.com/ivnetwork/7o424dta1xo0zxx6/wish/2884553869 Leicestershire example flier ivnetwork https://padlet.com/ivnetwork/7o424dta1xo0zxx6/wish/2955120802 2024-04-15 13:45:52 UTC https://padlet.com/ivnetwork/7o424dta1xo0zxx6/wish/2955120802 Leicestershire scheme - promoting to children's home providers local ivnetwork https://padlet.com/ivnetwork/7o424dta1xo0zxx6/wish/2955127472 Leicestershire email residentials there flier and links to testimonials:


An Independent Visitor (IV) is a volunteer who visits and befriends a child or young person living in care of Leicestershire County Council. Independent Visitors are amazing and make a real difference to the lives of our Leicestershire Children in Care 🌟

Independent Visitor Testimonials - Feb 2023

If you could spare a few hours, once a month, find out more about becoming an Independent Visitor via the link below 👇

https://www.leicestershire.gov.uk/jobs-and-volunteering/volunteering/volunteer-with-the-children-and-family-wellbeing-service

]]> 2024-04-15 13:49:13 UTC https://padlet.com/ivnetwork/7o424dta1xo0zxx6/wish/2955127472 Stock images available for IV schemes to use ivnetwork https://padlet.com/ivnetwork/7o424dta1xo0zxx6/wish/2966861370 Use of these images is available to NIVN member IV schemes

]]> 2024-04-23 18:32:25 UTC https://padlet.com/ivnetwork/7o424dta1xo0zxx6/wish/2966861370 Rebranding - Doncaster Council 'Buddy' Scheme ivnetwork https://padlet.com/ivnetwork/7o424dta1xo0zxx6/wish/3003215271 Doncaster Council has rebranded its inhouse IV scheme as 'Buddy Scheme'. This has included volunteer testimonial and personalised volunteer profiles with photos on the council website and Facebook. This has attracted lots of interest and IV applications.

]]> 2024-05-22 10:54:08 UTC https://padlet.com/ivnetwork/7o424dta1xo0zxx6/wish/3003215271 Doncaster Council IV testimonial on Facebook ivnetwork https://padlet.com/ivnetwork/7o424dta1xo0zxx6/wish/3003216884 Doncaster Council have reported this has been very successful and led to a boost in volunteer applications.

]]> 2024-05-22 10:55:56 UTC https://padlet.com/ivnetwork/7o424dta1xo0zxx6/wish/3003216884