Strengthening and Celebrating Volunteer Management Across Our Community
The Volunteer Managers Network is a collaborative community for anyone who works with, supports, or champions volunteers. Whether you coordinate a small group of volunteers, manage a large programme, or are newly stepping into a volunteer‑involving role, the network offers a supportive space where you can connect with peers, exchange ideas, and gain fresh inspiration.
After a gap without regular gatherings, we are relaunching the network to ensure volunteer managers across the region feel equipped, connected, and confident in the work they do. Volunteer management is evolving rapidly, and the network provides a place to navigate these changes together.
What the Network Offers
– Peer Connection & Support
Volunteer management can be both rewarding and challenging—and often, you’re the only one in your organisation doing this work. The network provides space to speak openly with others who truly understand the realities of the role. Through regular meet‑ups, themed discussions, and peer problem‑solving sessions, members gain practical insights and encouragement.
– Learning & Best Practice Sharing
The network brings together the latest approaches, tools, and ideas to help you strengthen your volunteer programme. From recruitment and retention to safeguarding, wellbeing, and inclusive practice, we explore the full spectrum of volunteer engagement. Members are encouraged to share their experiences, resources, and lessons learned—creating a rich pool of collective knowledge.
– Collaboration Across Organisations
By connecting organisations from different sectors—charities, local authorities, health settings, community groups, and more—the network opens the door to partnership opportunities and joined‑up approaches to volunteering. Together, we can build a more coordinated and resilient volunteering ecosystem.
– Professional Development Opportunities
We can host bite‑sized masterclasses, guest speakers, facilitated workshops, and practical sessions designed to help you develop your skills and confidence. Whether you’re looking to refresh your knowledge or explore new trends in volunteer engagement, the network can provide ongoing opportunities for growth.
– A Voice for Volunteer Managers
The network acts as a shared platform to identify what support volunteer‑involving organisations need—locally and across the wider sector. Your insights help shape future training, collective projects, and advocacy work. By bringing our voices together, we can influence positive change that benefits volunteers, organisations, and communities.
Who Can Join?
The network is open to anyone involved in supporting volunteers, including:
- Volunteer Managers, Coordinators, and Supervisors
- Volunteer Engagement or Participation Leads
- Community and Outreach Workers
- Programme Managers who work with volunteers
- People new to volunteer management who want support
- Organisations exploring how to introduce volunteers into their work
If your role involves volunteers in any way, you are warmly welcome.
What to Expect at The Events
Each network gathering features a blend of learning, sharing, and connection. Activities may include:
- Skill‑burst mini masterclasses
- Facilitated discussion groups
- Peer problem‑solving circles
- Good practice “show and share” sessions
- Networking activities with purpose
- Updates on local initiatives, opportunities, and trends in volunteering
Most of all, our events are designed to be relaxed, friendly, and genuinely useful.
Why the Network Matters
Volunteers are at the heart of so much positive work in our communities. Behind every meaningful volunteer experience is someone who has carefully planned roles, provided support, nurtured motivation, and created an environment where people feel valued.
The Volunteer Managers Network exists to recognise and strengthen that vital work. By supporting the people who support volunteers, we help ensure that volunteering remains impactful, inclusive, and sustainable for years to come.
Join the Network
Whether you’re looking to build connections, access practical support, or simply recharge your enthusiasm, we’d love you to be part of the Volunteer Managers Network.
Stay connected, share ideas, and help shape the future of volunteering in our community.
Next Event:
Portsmouth Volunteer Managers Network – Reconnecting
Monday 23 February 2026 10am – Book tickets below
