Building stronger communities through the power of volunteering
Volunteering Matters is a UK wide charity dedicated to creating connected, inclusive communities where everyone can thrive. Since 1962 we have used the power of volunteering to tackle some of society’s most complex challenges, from loneliness and isolation to health inequalities and youth exclusion.
Our work is place based and people led. We co create projects with communities, ensuring they are meaningful, sustainable and responsive to local needs. Every year more than 12,000 volunteers across over 85 programmes support more than 115,000 people to lead change in their own lives and communities.
We believe volunteering is an act of optimism. A quiet rebellion against the idea that one person cannot make a difference. When people come together, they create lasting change. Not just for others, but for themselves too.
We do more than place people in volunteering roles. We build ecosystems of social action. Our model supports people to:
- Take their first steps into volunteering
- Build skills and confidence
- Sustain meaningful relationships through regular volunteering
- Step into leadership and advocacy roles
- Shape systems and decisions that affect their communities
Every form of contribution matters. Wherever someone begins, they are part of a powerful movement that transforms lives and strengthens communities.
- Community first – our projects are co designed and led by the people they support
- Equity focused – we remove barriers to participation and leadership
- Evidence driven – our work is backed by research and lived experience
- Inclusive and flexible – we offer pathways for people at every life stage
- Local roots and national voice – we are embedded in communities and influence change at scale
Our strategy 2025 to 2030
Over the next five years our ambition is to create the conditions where everyone can volunteer in ways that are accessible, equitable and impactful.
We are focusing our efforts around five key areas of change:
- Combatting loneliness and social fragmentation
- Improving mental and physical health
- Breaking down barriers to opportunity
- Equipping communities to lead change
- Creating social cohesion through shared action
These priorities guide our programmes, partnerships and influence in shaping local and national systems.
Our values
Empowering
Supporting our team and our communities to make change happen by sharing skills, knowledge, and time. Listening , trusting, cooperating, collaborating, building self confidence, and accountability to make positive change.
Inclusive
Actively removing barriers and providing equality of opportunities for everyone. Bringing people together, creating new relationships and new opportunities. Working together with a shared purpose to make the biggest impact possible.
Compassionate
Putting people at the heart of everything we do. Listening. Caring. Giving time, empathy, appreciation and value to our team and our communities.
Positive
Recognising and embracing the potential in our team, our communities, a situation, or a new idea. Being curious about things. Spotting new ideas and solutions and having fun along the way.
Straightforward
Being openminded, honest, and accountable. Having a flexible, uncomplicated approach in our communication style and the way we do things.
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