On Tuesday 18th November 2025 we hosted our quarterly Volunteer Involving Organisations Network meeting online with guest Seminar leader Rob Jackson, for the final edition of the 3-part training workshop session that we have been enjoying with a 1 hour question and answer session.
Joined by network members and guests to the network meeting we spent 1 hour asking Rob Jackson questions based on all things volunteering. Rob Jackson helped to tackle questions on difficulties in recruitment and innovative ways to encourage volunteering in this modern age.
The main challenge discussed was volunteer recruitment, and while Rob’s previous workshops “Volunteering is Changing and So Must You” and “Recruitment and Selection” highlighted Time Well Spent NCVO’s research programme focusing on volunteers and their experience, which tells us (among other things):
- There is a perception gap – most people don’t volunteer because they think it won’t be flexible (while people who DO volunteer report, they value how flexible it is)
- The biggest reason people DO volunteer is they feel connected to the cause
- The biggest reason people DON’T volunteer is because they would rather spend their free time doing something else pursuits (eg cinema, theatre, gym, going to the pub, watching Traitors etc.) Or don’t have any free time due to work/caring commitments.
- Park Run attracts 12 thousand volunteers every week, Key Features of the parkrun Volunteering Modelthat make it accessible and sustainable are:
· Accessibility and Flexibility: Roles are designed to be simple and require little or no prior experience. Volunteers can participate as often or as little as they like, without obligation or the need for a long-term commitment.
· Inclusivity: There are volunteering opportunities for everyone regardless of age, background, or ability. Roles can be adapted for different needs, including those with health conditions or on rest days from running.
· Social Connection and Community: The model fosters a strong sense of community and belonging. Volunteers are considered participants in the same way as runners/walkers and often develop social connections.
· Reciprocity (“Giving Back”): A significant motivation for volunteers is to “give something back” to the community that provides the free event. The model encourages participants who run or walk to also volunteer occasionally (a suggested ratio of at least once per 10 runs).
· Health and Well-being Benefits: Research has shown that volunteering at parkrun can improve mental and physical well-being and increase happiness, sometimes more so than running alone.
We are grateful to all who were in attendance for the network meeting this week and we are grateful to the entire network at large for joining us in all of our 2025 VIO Network meetings and for your continued support.
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