Our unique approach involves developing projects designed by communities, for communities. Everyone deserves the opportunity to thrive, and we believe stronger communities are the key.

Social action unites people to enhance their lives and tackle pressing community issues. At Volunteering Matters we know that social action manifests through volunteering, community organising, and simple acts of neighbourliness.

By engaging in volunteering and social action, everyone has the opportunity to effect change in their community and experience the personal benefits of doing so. Volunteering is a voluntary act—some individuals may need support, while others do not. We collaborate with people rather than working on their behalf, and our place-based approach involves working closely with local partners.

Our asks

Partners across a place support volunteering and social action (and community benefit) by enabling people to give their time and energy to issues they care about, this can be through giving up space and power, changing service design – and releasing funding. Everyone in the community has and does have something to contribute, but some people will need more support than others.

We are calling on decision makers, community leaders, funders and organisations to:

• Understand the research and evidence behind our positions and see how volunteering can address critical community needs.
• Collaborate with us to develop and implement volunteer-driven initiatives that create lasting impact.
• Advocate for policies that support and recognise the value of volunteers in building stronger communities.

Together, we can harness the power of volunteering to make a real difference. Join us in creating a future where every individual’s contribution is valued, and communities are vibrant, inclusive, and resilient.