Communication & engagement 

Staying in touch with your volunteers is an important part of delivering a positive experience for them. Schedule regular catch ups to check on their welfare and discuss their experiences while volunteers. Talk to them about their expectations and motivations to keep track of how they are changing. Be prepared to adjust a volunteer’s role if there is a shift. 

Regular check-ins are also an opportunity build a relationship with a volunteer and foster an environment where they are comfortable giving feedback. Feedback is key to effectively supporting volunteers and goes two ways. You can talk to a volunteer about how they are going in their role, where they are excelling, and where they could improve. You can also ask a volunteer for feedback on how inclusive the organisation is and if they feel supported in their role. Use this to inform how you manage your volunteer and the environment they work in. Be flexible and change your approach if needed. Finally, ensure that volunteers are aware of your organisation’s complaint process and support them if they need to use it. 

During these catch ups consider the language you use, the environment you are in, and the approach you take. Practicing Cultural Inclusion module will help you do this in a culturally sensitive manner.  

To keep your volunteers engaged aim to include them as much as possible so they feel a part of your organisation. Involve them in: 

• Staff meetings 

• Organisational events 

• Group emails and other communications 

• Newsletters 

You can also use food to keep your volunteers engaged. Sharing a meal brings people together and makes events memorable. It is also a great way to support local community businesses. Ask your volunteers to help organise catering as it gives them an opportunity to share their culture. 

Again, be mindful of cultural requirements and provide dietary options for all your volunteers.