Buckinghamshire Volunteer Managers' Network Meeting

Developing a clear volunteer programme is an important part of building and strengthening your organisation’s approach to volunteering. A good programme can help shape the direction of your work, ensure volunteers receive the right support, and make sure your volunteering opportunities meet the needs of both your organisation and the people you work with.

At this session, we’ll explore what developing a volunteer strategy looks like in practice. You’ll hear from Jasmine Brewis from Youth Concern who will share the highs and lows of her journey over the past 18 months as a Volunteer Coordinator — from creating and launching a new volunteer programme to recruiting and supporting volunteers. She will also explore ways we can encourage more young people to get involved in volunteering, sharing practical insights and learning from her experience.

The session will provide a chance to reflect on your own volunteer programme, pick up practical ideas and consider how a volunteer strategy could support your organisation to attract, engage and retain volunteers.

It is also a chance for Buckinghamshire Volunteer Managers to connect with colleagues from local charities and community groups, explore how networking can support your role, discuss shared challenges, and share knowledge and experiences.

Developing a Volunteer Programme

During the session, we will:

• Explore why having a volunteer programme is important.
• Hear about Youth Concern’s experience of developing a volunteering opportunity for young adults.
• Learn from Jasmine’s experience of setting up and managing the role.
• Share practical tips, resources and ideas that can help when developing a volunteer strategy.
• Discuss some of the challenges and opportunities involved in developing volunteer roles.
• Have the opportunity to ask questions and share experiences with other Volunteer Managers.

Networking

As well as the main session, there will be time at the end of the meeting to network with other Volunteer Managers from across Buckinghamshire.

Networking is an important part of working in the voluntary and community sector. It provides an opportunity to build connections, share ideas and learning, discuss common challenges and strengthen the support available to you and your organisation.

Whether you are looking for ideas, facing a particular challenge, or simply want to connect with others who understand the role of volunteer management, this will be a chance to share experiences and learn from your peers.

Who should attend?

Anyone (paid/unpaid) who is involved with recruiting/managing volunteers for charities, community groups or social enterprises that deliver services in Buckinghamshire. Whether you’re new in your role with lots of questions, or an experienced manager.

The event is for organisations whose beneficiaries are in Buckinghamshire, priority will be given to organisations with a turnover of £100,000 or below. Both new and established organisations, of all sizes, are welcome and we encourage all groups to share their experiences with others.

Meet your speaker Jasmine Brewis, Volunteer Coordinator

Jasmine has 18 years’ experience working in the youth work sector, having worked as a volunteer, Assistant Youth Worker, Youth Worker and Manager. She has experience across both the charity and public sectors.

Jasmine joined Youth Concern 18 months ago, where she has developed and launched the organisation’s first dedicated volunteer programme, as well as leading their Youth Panel.