Valuing volunteers

To retain volunteers, and for volunteer initiatives to succeed, there must be benefits for everyone.

Here are some ways to keep your volunteers interested:

• create an environment that welcomes and values volunteers
• be clear about roles and what is expected
• don't over commit volunteers
• show appreciation for their work and commitment
• provide relevant support and guidance
• include volunteers in social and other events
• acknowledge volunteers in newsletters and school assemblies
• arrange a Volunteers' Day
• farewell volunteers when they move on.

Recognition

When a volunteer programme has been running for some time, you may like to recognise long serving volunteers by giving them a certificate or recognise their contribution at a school assembly.