Involving Volunteers
If you are a charity, community or faith group looking to involve volunteers, this page will help you plan, recruit and support them effectively. The Newham Volunteers programme, run by Newham Council, connects residents with opportunities across the borough. Volunteers bring skills, experience and energy that strengthen organisations, build community links and when valued, become passionate ambassadors, spreading the word, inspiring others and amplifying your impact.
Planning (how to prepare for
volunteer involvement)
- Define the volunteer role clearly: What will the volunteer do?
- Identify required skills, availability, and time commitment.
- Decide who will supervise and support the volunteer.
- Assess training needs and safeguarding requirements (e.g. DBS checks).
- Draft a Volunteer Role Description with input from your team.
- Helpful resource: NCVO – Writing Volunteer Role Descriptions
Recruiting (attracting and selecting volunteers)
- Use your Volunteer Role Description to advertise the role.
- Promote locally, on social media, your website, and platforms like
Do-it.org. - Submit opportunities to Newham Volunteers.
- Share roles via UEL Career Zone for student volunteers.
- For skilled roles or trustees, use Reach Volunteering.
- Manage volunteers with Be Collective.
- For corporate volunteering, try: Hands on London and ELBA
Supporting (helping volunteers thrive and feel valued)
- Set clear expectations and provide ongoing support.
- Offer training and development opportunities.
- Recognise contributions through certificates, awards, or shout-outs.
- Include volunteers in team updates and events.
- Foster a welcoming and inclusive environment.
- Volunteer Policies
- Develop policies as your programme grows.
- Include guidance on safeguarding, complaints, and boundaries.
- Ensure respectful and fair treatment of all volunteers.
- Communicate clearly and consistently.
- Helpful resource: NCVO – Volunteer Policies
