About us
Volunteering Matters is a UK wide charity building stronger, inclusive communities through volunteering. Each year, over 12,000 volunteers support locally led projects that tackle loneliness, improve wellbeing and empower people to lead change.
Who we are
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.
What sets us apart is how we work alongside communities to create meaningful, lasting change.
- 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 five key areas of change:
Combatting loneliness
We are committed to tackling loneliness by building stronger, more connected communities through the power of volunteering. By creating meaningful opportunities for people to connect, we help improve…
Breaking down barriers
We are committed to breaking down barriers so that everyone can take part in volunteering and community life. By removing obstacles and creating inclusive opportunities, we help ensure people feel…
Creating social cohesion
We are committed to creating social cohesion by bringing people together and strengthening relationships across communities. Through shared experiences and inclusive opportunities, we help build…
Improving health and wellbeing
We are committed to improving health and wellbeing by creating opportunities for people to feel connected, supported and active in their communities. Through volunteering, we help people build…
Equipping and enabling communities
We are committed to equipping and enabling communities with the skills, confidence and resources they need to lead change. By supporting local people to take action, we help build stronger, more…
Discover more about us
Our strategy (2025-2030)
Our 2025–2030 strategy sets out how we will support communities to reduce isolation, improve wellbeing and lead change. It is built on the belief that communities know best and should shape their…
Policy and influence
We use our voice to champion volunteering and ensure community-led solutions are recognised in policy and practice. Our priorities focus on older people, youth social action and preventative,…
Our people
Learn more about our senior staff including our CEO, Amanda Naylor OBE, and our Board of Trustees.
Making an impact
See the difference we make together, through the collective impact of our volunteers, colleagues and partners across the UK. Our work supports people and communities to thrive, creating lasting…
Work for us
Join us to build stronger, more connected communities through the power of volunteering, where your work creates real, lasting change. At Volunteering Matters, you will be supported, valued and…
Accounts and annual reports
Find out more about Volunteering Matters in our most recent Annual Reports and Accounts.
Our role in the sector
We play an active role in shaping the future of volunteering across the UK. By working alongside partners, networks and sector-wide initiatives such as Vision for Volunteering, we help ensure that…