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DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20260226T103000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20260226T123000
DTSTAMP:20260602T215700
CREATED:20260121T105145Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260213T125502Z
UID:178392-1772101800-1772109000@volunteermanagers.org.uk
SUMMARY:Mentoring: Introduction to Mentoring (for Mentors)
DESCRIPTION:Thursday 26 February 2026 | 10.30am to 12.30pm | Online\nFree for AVM members taking part in the Mentoring scheme\nThis session will provide mentors with formal mentoring training and the opportunity to build a community of practice to support you in your mentoring whether new to mentoring or with an established track record in supporting mentees.   \nIt will cover: \n\nA brief overview of the mentor handbook.\nThe difference between mentoring and other types of support.\nThe importance of agreeing the expectations and boundaries of the relationship.\nKey skills for mentors.\nWorking with the mentee to set their goals.\nThe importance of supervision and how AVM will support this.\nBuilding a Community of Practice for mentors.\n\nThis session is only available for AVM Members who were matched with a mentee in the February 2026 Mentoring scheme. \nAbout the facilitator\nDr Nicky Adams\, the AVM Mentoring Scheme Lead Volunteer\, will be facilitating the session. Nicky is a Senior Lecturer in HR and Leadership at the University of Wolverhampton. She is an experienced lecturer\, teacher\, facilitator\, Learning and Development professional\, coach and mentor\, specialising in helping others develop their own skills in the areas of management and leadership\, change management\, facilitation\, training\, coaching and mentoring. \nNot an AVM Member?\nIf you’re not an AVM member\, you can join AVM today to gain access to this event\, as well as lots of other benefits including access to other free member-only events\, discounts for all public events and the annual AVM conference.  \nYou will also have access to the AVM BiteSize webcasts and AVM Replay videos of previous events\, including our annual conference.  \nMembers also have the opportunity to build their professional network through AVM Connect. \nJoin AVM now
URL:https://volunteermanagers.org.uk/event/introduction-to-mentoring-for-mentors-feb-2026/
LOCATION:Online on Zoom
CATEGORIES:Member-only event
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://volunteermanagers.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/amy-hirschi-K0c8ko3e6AA-unsplash-scaled.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20260226T093000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20260226T101500
DTSTAMP:20260602T215700
CREATED:20260121T105047Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260121T105047Z
UID:178390-1772098200-1772100900@volunteermanagers.org.uk
SUMMARY:Mentoring: Introduction to Mentoring (for Mentees)
DESCRIPTION:Thursday 26 February 2026 | 9.30am to 10.15am | Online\nFree for AVM members taking part in the Mentoring scheme\nThis session will provide mentees with some guidance and support about the process and ensure you get the most out of your first sessions with your mentor.   \nIt will cover: \n\nA brief overview of the mentee handbook.\nWhat mentoring within the AVM programme means.\nHow mentoring can support you as a mentee.\nIdentify your goals for the mentoring programme.\nBuild a supportive mentee group.\n\nThis session is only available for AVM Members who were matched with a mentor in the February 2026 Mentoring scheme. \nAbout the facilitator\nDr Nicky Adams\, the AVM Mentoring Scheme Lead Volunteer\, will be facilitating the session. Nicky is a Senior Lecturer in HR and Leadership at the University of Wolverhampton. She is an experienced lecturer\, teacher\, facilitator\, Learning and Development professional\, coach and mentor\, specialising in helping others develop their own skills in the areas of management and leadership\, change management\, facilitation\, training\, coaching and mentoring. \nNot an AVM Member?\nIf you’re not an AVM member\, you can join AVM today to gain access to this event\, as well as lots of other benefits including access to other free member-only events\, discounts for all public events and the annual AVM conference.  \nYou will also have access to the AVM BiteSize webcasts and AVM Replay videos of previous events\, including our annual conference.  \nMembers also have the opportunity to build their professional network through AVM Connect. \nJoin AVM now
URL:https://volunteermanagers.org.uk/event/introduction-to-mentoring-for-mentees-feb-2026/
LOCATION:Online on Zoom
CATEGORIES:Member-only event
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://volunteermanagers.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/amy-hirschi-K0c8ko3e6AA-unsplash-scaled.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20260225T110000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20260225T130000
DTSTAMP:20260602T215700
CREATED:20260114T090027Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260107T142713Z
UID:178001-1772017200-1772024400@volunteermanagers.org.uk
SUMMARY:Peer Support Networking Meeting: East Midlands
DESCRIPTION:Wednesday 25 February 2026 | 11am to 1pm | Nottingham\nTickets: Free\nThe next meeting of the East Midlands Peer Support Networking Group is an opportunity for anyone working in volunteer management to connect with other volunteer managers\,\nshare best practices\, pick up new ideas and collaborate with others. \nEveryone is welcome\, although booking is essential as places are limited by the venue capacity. \nAbout our regional Peer Support Networking Groups\nOur new Peer Support Networking Groups aim to bring people together to develop\, connect and empower one another as well as further the volunteer management profession. \nThey are managed by a regional Peer Support Group Lead\, and free of charge for anyone working in volunteer management. \nWe are slowly expanding face-to-face networking opportunities across the four nations\, although everyone is welcome to attend any meeting\, regardless of where they are based. \nWe will announce meeting dates for other regional groups over the coming months. If you are not an AVM Member\, make sure that you are subscribed to our Newsletters to get the latest updates for new meetings in your area. \nPeer Support Group Lead\nRob Jackson \nVenue\nDryden Enterprise Centre\, Nottingham Trent University\, Dryden Street\, Nottingham\, NG1 4FQ \nBooking\nBook your place via our online booking form.
URL:https://volunteermanagers.org.uk/event/peer-support-networking-meeting-east-midlands-feb-26/
LOCATION:Nottingham Trent University\, Dryden Enterprise Centre\, Nottingham Trent University\, Dryden Street\,\, Nottingham\, NG1 4FQ\, United Kingdom
CATEGORIES:Networking
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://volunteermanagers.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/Peer-Support-Networking-Events.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20260225T093000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20260225T123000
DTSTAMP:20260602T215700
CREATED:20251217T094426Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260424T091103Z
UID:177992-1772011800-1772022600@volunteermanagers.org.uk
SUMMARY:Training Event: How to Write a Volunteer Strategy
DESCRIPTION:Wednesday 25 Feb 2026 | 9.30am to 12.30pm | Online via Zoom\nTicket prices: Members £43 | Non-Members £65\nA great volunteer strategy is the launchpad for building a movement around your cause. If you’re thinking of developing your organisation’s first volunteer strategy this workshop is for you. \nYou will learn how different organisations approach volunteer strategy development\, learn hints and tips about ensuring your volunteer strategy will succeed and explore with peers new approaches to strategy development in your organisation. \nThe session will use real life case studies and tips to cover: \n\nExploring why you might need a volunteer strategy\nCo-producing the strategy with volunteers and volunteer managers\nThe difference between a strategy\, plan and tactics\nUnderstanding the internal and external landscape\nAudit and analysis\nAligning with your organisation’s cause and goal\nAligning to volunteer motivations and preferences\nStaffing\, budget and ways of working – resourcing the strategy\nSome ideas for implementation\nEvaluating and reviewing your strategy live.\n\nAbout the trainer\nLaura Elson has worked in volunteer involvement for over 20 years and now works as an independent consultant specialising in supporting organisations to build ambitious and cohesive volunteer strategies that build movements around a cause. \nLaura has worked in volunteer leadership roles at a number of grassroots organisations\, and at Volunteer Centre Leeds\, Parkinson’s UK\, and England Netball. As a consultant she has helped over 40 organisations with their strategic volunteering including Citizens Advice\, Butterfly Conservation Trust\, Dogs Trust\, and more. \nLaura is an Associate Consultant with NCVO\, Consultants for Good and the Association of Chairs. Laura is a serial volunteer with several local and national charities. \n© Laura Elson Consulting Ltd. All course content and materials are copyright and may not be reproduced without permission. \nAVM Members’ discount\nAVM members are eligible for a discount on the event ticket price. Please login to your account so that your discount can be automatically applied. \nIf you’re not an AVM member\, you can join AVM today to gain access to this event\, as well as receiving lots of other benefits\, including access to free member-only events\, discounts for all public events and the annual AVM conference. \nYou will also have access to the AVM BiteSize webcasts and AVM Replay videos of previous events\, including our annual conference. Members also have the opportunity to join our Mentoring Scheme and build their professional network through AVM Connect. \nJoin AVM today to access your discount for this event.
URL:https://volunteermanagers.org.uk/event/masterclass-how-to-write-a-volunteer-strategy/
LOCATION:Online on Zoom
CATEGORIES:Learning & Development
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://volunteermanagers.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/the-connected-narrative-8m9m7TqtBe4-unsplash-scaled.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20260212T130000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20260212T143000
DTSTAMP:20260602T215700
CREATED:20251217T165909Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260309T142248Z
UID:178010-1770901200-1770906600@volunteermanagers.org.uk
SUMMARY:Members’ Forum: Working With Emotions as a Key Volunteer Management Skill - Introduction to the Toolkit
DESCRIPTION:Thursday 12 February 2026 | 1pm to 2.30pm | Online via Zoom\nTicket prices: Free for AVM Members\nAs busy volunteer managers\, we can sometimes find ourselves focusing on the mechanics or processes of volunteering and not giving enough thought to how we\, and the people we lead and manage\, are feeling. \nIn October 2021\, a free online toolkit ‘Working with Emotions in Volunteering’ was launched\, which aims to help volunteer managers develop and practice skills around working with emotions effectively. \nThe toolkit was developed from a decade of research and consultancy between voluntary organisations and academics Professor Anne-marie Greene (University of York) and Professor Jenna Ward (Coventry University). \nThis session will give you an opportunity to: \n\nhear about the research and ideas behind the toolkit\nget an overview of the activities within the toolkit\ntalk with the authors about how it can be used within your own organisations.\n\nAbout the speakers\nAnne-marie Greene – Professor of Work and Diversity and Director of Research Impact at the School for Business and Society\, University of York\nAnne-marie researches equality\, diversity and inclusion (EDI) in theory and practice. A particular research interest is the interface between work\, life\, family and community\, especially where a sense of calling\, mission or activism is required. This often concerns areas of work that stand outside of the standard employment relationship and which are less formally regulated\, bringing with them challenges of management policy and practice and issues of inequality. Research projects have involved volunteer managers and volunteers\, clergy\, actors\, freelance creatives\, diversity consultants and trade union representatives. Anne-marie is Artistic Director and Trustee of the Criterion Theatre\, Coventry\, a volunteer-run charity. \nJenna Ward – Professor of Organisation\, Work and Emotion and Dean of the College of Business and Law at Coventry University\nJenna’s research focuses on exploring emotionality within organisations\, organising and managing. Prioritising marginalised voices\, Jenna employs and develops innovative arts-based research methods that complement her ethnographically informed research designs to observe and probe beyond the surface of both organisations and individual experiences of work and organisations. Areas of interest include: emotional labour\, dirty work\, emotional dirty work\, visual and arts-based methods\, creative industries\, health care\, death work and the management and organisation of voluntary work and volunteers. Research has included working with organisations such as the Department of Health\, the National Trust\, the City of London\, NHS\, Samaritans and\, most recently\, England Netball. \nNot an AVM Member?\nIf you’re not an AVM member\, you can join AVM today to gain access to this event\, as well as lots of other benefits including access to other free member-only events\, discounts for all public events and the annual AVM conference. \nYou will also have access to the AVM BiteSize webcasts and AVM Replay videos of previous events\, including our annual conference.\nMembers also have the opportunity to join our mentoring scheme and build their professional network through AVM Connect. \nJoin AVM now \nThis is a free event with a limited number of places available\nPlease only sign up if you are definitely able to attend. If your availability changes and you can no longer attend\, please email us to cancel your place and allow others to book a place and attend instead. Thank you.
URL:https://volunteermanagers.org.uk/event/working-with-emotions-introduction-to-toolkit/
LOCATION:Online on Zoom
CATEGORIES:Member-only event
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END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20260212T103000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20260212T123000
DTSTAMP:20260602T215700
CREATED:20260107T115842Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260107T115842Z
UID:178184-1770892200-1770899400@volunteermanagers.org.uk
SUMMARY:Peer Support Networking Meeting: West Midlands
DESCRIPTION:Thursday 12 February 2026 | 10.30am to 12.30pm | Birmingham\nTickets: Free\nThe next meeting of the West Midlands Peer Support Networking Group will provide an opportunity for anyone working in volunteer management to connect with other volunteer managers\, share best practices\, pick up new ideas and collaborate with each other. \nThe format of the meetings is relaxed and informal. We want these meetings to be as useful as possible to colleagues and will work with you to put together an agenda that covers topics you are interested in. In order to get the most out of the meeting\, please come along willing to share and participate. \nEveryone is welcome\, although booking is essential as places are limited by the venue capacity. \nThe meetings are held three times a year. \nAbout AVM’s regional Peer Support Networking Groups\nOur Peer Support Networking Groups aim to bring people together to develop\, connect and empower one another as well as further the volunteer management profession. \nThey are managed by a regional Peer Support Group Lead\, and free of charge for anyone working in volunteer management. \nWe are slowly expanding face-to-face networking opportunities across the four nations\, although everyone is welcome to attend any meeting\, regardless of where they are based. \nWe will announce meeting dates for other regional groups over the coming months. If you are not an AVM Member\, make sure that you are subscribed to our Newsletters to get the latest updates for new meetings in your area. \nPeer Support Group Lead\nCharlotte Witteridge \nVenue\nVirgin Money Birmingham\, 136-138 New Street\, Birmingham\, B2 4NS \nThe venue is located in the centre of Birmingham and is easily accessible via public transport (train\, bus and tram): \n\n3 minute walk from Birmingham New Street Station\n7 minute walk from Snow Hill Station\n6 minute walk from Moor Street Station\nMany local bus and tram services\nVarious local car parks\, including NCP Birmingham New Street\, Q-Park Mailbox\n\nPlease note that Birmingham operates a ‘clean air zone‘ for vehicles. \nAccessibility\nThe meeting room is located on the ground floor (no steps). A hearing loop is available.\nIf you have any accessibility requirements\, please include these in the relevant section of the booking form so that the meeting organiser can explore how they can be accommodated for you. \nBooking\nBook your place via our online booking form.
URL:https://volunteermanagers.org.uk/event/peer-support-networking-meeting-west-midlands-feb-2026/
LOCATION:Virgin Money Lounge (Birmingham)\, 136-138 New Street\, Birmingham\, Birmingham\, B2 4NS\, United Kingdom
CATEGORIES:Networking
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END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20260212T103000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20260212T120000
DTSTAMP:20260602T215700
CREATED:20250818T153737Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20251118T154223Z
UID:176379-1770892200-1770897600@volunteermanagers.org.uk
SUMMARY:Mentoring: Mid-Programme Session (Mentoring CPD and Group Supervision for Mentors)
DESCRIPTION:Thursday 12 February 2026 | 10.30am to 12pm | Online via Zoom\nFree for AVM Members taking part in the Mentoring scheme\nCome along to a mentor meeting facilitated by AVM to share your mentoring experiences\, gain support through group supervision\, benefit from each other’s input and develop skills to help you feel more confident in your mentoring. \nThe first half of the session will be group supervision\, with time to discuss mentor challenges in a safe supportive space. The second half will provide a CPD (continuing professional development) session to develop skills for deepening mentor/ mentee relationship and cover any issues identified in the mid-programme review. \nSupervision is a critical part of mentoring and we encourage all mentors to take part in this catch up session. One advantage of group supervision is that the supervisees benefit from each other’s input\, as well as that of the supervisor. \nYour input will help us improve the programme for all participants and provide you with a networking opportunity. \nThis event is only available for AVM Members who were matched with a mentee in the October 2025 Mentoring scheme. \nAbout the facilitator\nDr Nicky Adams\, the AVM Mentoring Scheme Lead Volunteer\, will be facilitating the session. Nicky is a Senior Lecturer in HR and Leadership at the University of Wolverhampton. She is an experienced lecturer\, teacher\, facilitator\, Learning and Development professional\, coach and mentor\, specialising in helping others develop their own skills in the areas of management and leadership\, change management\, facilitation\, training\, coaching and mentoring. \nNot an AVM Member?\nIf you’re not an AVM member\, you can join AVM today to gain access to this event\, as well as lots of other benefits including access to other free member-only events\, discounts for all public events and the annual AVM conference.  \nYou will also have access to the AVM BiteSize webcasts and AVM Replay videos of previous events\, including our annual conference.  \nMembers also have the opportunity to build their professional network through AVM Connect. \nJoin AVM now
URL:https://volunteermanagers.org.uk/event/mentoring-mid-programme-session-mentors-february-2026/
LOCATION:Online on Zoom
CATEGORIES:Member-only event
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://volunteermanagers.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/amy-hirschi-K0c8ko3e6AA-unsplash-scaled.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20260212T093000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20260212T101500
DTSTAMP:20260602T215700
CREATED:20250818T152519Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20251118T154230Z
UID:176372-1770888600-1770891300@volunteermanagers.org.uk
SUMMARY:Mentoring: Mid-Programme Session (for Mentees)
DESCRIPTION:Thursday 12 February 2026 | 9.30am to 10.15am | Online via Zoom\nFree for AVM Members taking part in the Mentoring scheme\nCome along to a mentee meeting facilitated by AVM to talk about how the programme is going for you. \nWorking in small groups you will have the opportunity to share your experiences with other mentees and discuss any highlights or challenges encountered so far. We will talk through any information from the mid-programme review and deal with any additional questions as well as provide a networking opportunity. \nIn addition your input will help us ensure that the programme meets mentees needs and help develop mentors for future programmes as well as provide a networking opportunity. \nThis event is only available for AVM Members who were matched with a mentor in the October 2025 Mentoring scheme. \nAbout the facilitator\nDr Nicky Adams\, the AVM Mentoring Scheme Lead Volunteer\, will be facilitating the session. Nicky is a Senior Lecturer in HR and Leadership at the University of Wolverhampton. She is an experienced lecturer\, teacher\, facilitator\, Learning and Development professional\, coach and mentor\, specialising in helping others develop their own skills in the areas of management and leadership\, change management\, facilitation\, training\, coaching and mentoring. \nNot an AVM Member?\nIf you’re not an AVM member\, you can join AVM today to gain access to this event\, as well as lots of other benefits including access to other free member-only events\, discounts for all public events and the annual AVM conference.  \nYou will also have access to the AVM BiteSize webcasts and AVM Replay videos of previous events\, including our annual conference.  \nMembers also have the opportunity to build their professional network through AVM Connect. \nJoin AVM now
URL:https://volunteermanagers.org.uk/event/mentoring-mid-programme-session-mentees-february-2026/
LOCATION:Online on Zoom
CATEGORIES:Member-only event
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://volunteermanagers.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/amy-hirschi-K0c8ko3e6AA-unsplash-scaled.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20260204T130000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20260204T143000
DTSTAMP:20260602T215700
CREATED:20251027T120540Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20251027T150630Z
UID:177122-1770210000-1770215400@volunteermanagers.org.uk
SUMMARY:Members' Free Think-in: Navigating Conflict with Volunteers
DESCRIPTION:Wednesday 4 February 2026 | 1pm to 2.30pm | Online via Zoom\nFree for AVM Members\nAre disagreements with volunteers holding back your projects?\nWant to learn how to balance volunteer perspectives with your organisational objectives and KPI’s?\nUnsure how to pre-empt clashes between staff and volunteers on your team?\n\nThis session offers practical strategies to manage conflict in volunteer-led projects and helps you navigate tricky volunteer-staff disagreements with confidence and peer support.\n\nDesigned to help you explore conflict situations – where volunteers and staff disagree over the direction of a project or programme – this event addresses when disputes might occur\, how to pre-empt them\, and practical steps for resolving conflict when it arises. Through a short facilitator presentation\, scenario-based discussions\, and action learning sets\, you’ll have the opportunity to practice dealing with real-life disagreements and share current challenges in a safe\, peer-supported space. \nFor smaller group activities\, participants will receive a scenario beforehand\, offering perspectives from both volunteers and staff members. You’ll engage with feedback from breakout discussions and wider group reflections. The event culminates in Action Learning Sets\, allowing you to share specific challenges and receive diverse insights and ideas from peers. We will use Menti as we go as well to capture our thoughts and possible solutions – this will be sent to attendees after the session as a useful resource. \nObjectives: \n\n\nLearn how to balance KPI’s\, organisational aims/strategies\, and volunteer views \n\n\nDiscover ways to pre-empt conflict through clear consultation and communication \n\n\nGain practical approaches for navigating disagreements with volunteers \n\n\nWhether you’re new to volunteer management or experienced in resolving tough conversations\, this interactive session uses collaborative tools and practical scenarios to bring the topic to life\, leaving you with tips\, insights\, and useful resources to apply in your own work. \n\n\nAbout the facilitator\nBradley Allsop is Senior Programme Officer for Generating Genius\, a social mobility charity that supports students from disadvantaged backgrounds. Bradley has worked across a number of charities as a staff member\, as a volunteer and as a trustee. This work has often involved supporting volunteers\, from recruiting and training\, to working alongside volunteers to co-produce events\, to supporting committees where volunteers use their voice to shape the work of the charity. \nAbout Free Think-in Sessions\nThink-in sessions are facilitated networking and peer-learning sessions. They are free\, member-only events designed to help you generate ideas\, grow connections\, learn from others and share skills\, experience and insights\, and problem-solve real-world situations. \nThink-in’s are friendly\, informal events bursting with tips\, tricks and takeaways. Connect with other volunteer leaders\, make links\, share approaches and insights\, celebrate successes\, and learn how others overcame obstacles and challenges. \nThink-in themes and topics relate to opportunities and challenges in volunteer leadership\, issues within society that affect volunteering\, or current and relevant challenges and issues. All Free Think-ins are stand-alone events\, where the attendance of any linked event is not required. \nIf you feel inspired to discuss a particular area or topic please email the Events Team.  They’ll design a session around the them or support you in creating and hosting a session. \nNot an AVM Member?\nIf you’re not an AVM member\, you can join AVM today to gain access to this event\, as well as lots of other benefits including access to other free member-only events\, discounts for all public events and the annual AVM conference.  \nYou will also have access to the AVM BiteSize webcasts and AVM Replay videos of previous events\, including our annual conference.  \nMembers also have the opportunity to join our mentoring scheme and build their professional network through AVM Connect. \nJoin AVM now \nThis is a free event with a limited number of places available\nPlease only sign up if you are definitely able to attend. If your availability changes and you can no longer attend\, please email us to cancel your place and allow others to book a place and attend instead. Thank you.
URL:https://volunteermanagers.org.uk/event/navigating-conflict-with-volunteers/
LOCATION:Online on Zoom
CATEGORIES:Member-only event
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END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20260129T093000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20260129T113000
DTSTAMP:20260602T215700
CREATED:20251107T110756Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20251110T120050Z
UID:177534-1769679000-1769686200@volunteermanagers.org.uk
SUMMARY:Volunteer Inductions - The Good\, The Bad and What They Could Be
DESCRIPTION:Thursday 29 January 2026 | 9.30am to 11.30am | Online via Zoom\nTicket prices: Members £27 | Non-Members £43\nHow do we get volunteers off to a great start\, ready to excel at their role?\nHow do we ensure volunteers engage with induction processes?\nWhat should we cover\, and what should we leave out of volunteer inductions? \nVolunteer inductions can be the make or break for volunteers. You’ve got them in and now is your real opportunity to show them what you do\, how you do it\, and why they should stick around to volunteer with you. \nDespite this we know that with stretched schedules and competing priorities this can often mean that we leave volunteers to do some online learning\, read some policies and ask us questions if they have them\, but this doesn’t lend itself to a great experience. \nEach charity will be different but there is one thing that we all want and that is to provide our volunteers with a great experience – how we get there might look different\, but the benefits of a great induction are extensive. \nIn this session we’ll look at how you can improve your inductions by looking at case studies from two charities who overhauled theirs\, and hear about the benefits of doing so. \nThis event will cover:\n\nWhat makes a good induction.\nHow to get buy-in for creating a new induction process from senior leadership.\nHow to go about developing an induction package.\nThe benefits of a comprehensive\, volunteer focused induction.\n\nAbout the speakers\nKaren Gurney – Volunteer Development and Experience Manager at Oxfam\nKaren Gurney is Oxfam’s Volunteer Development and Experience Manager for London and the South East. She has spent over a decade championing inclusive volunteering\, reshaping how organisations welcome\, support\, and celebrate their volunteers. From redesigning Oxfam’s volunteer induction to pioneering new ways of engagement\, Karen is passionate about making volunteering rewarding\, flexible and open to all. \nDan Smith – Volunteering Development Manager\, Noah’s Ark\nDan Smith is Noah’s Ark’s Volunteering Development Manager\, leading on the recruitment and onboarding of new volunteers ensuring their introduction to the organisation is supportive and welcoming. Since joining the charity Dan has developed new roles and services which directly support the work of the charity and those who use it. Dan is passionate about ensuring the time which volunteers are giving is meaningful and effective and their impact is maximised. \nAVM Members’ discount\nAVM members are eligible for a discount on the event ticket price. Please login to your account so that your discount can be automatically applied. \nIf you’re not an AVM member\, you can join AVM today to gain access to this event\, as well as receiving lots of other benefits\, including access to free member-only events\, discounts for all public events and the annual AVM conference.  \nYou will also have access to the AVM BiteSize webcasts and AVM Replay videos of previous events\, including our annual conference. Members also have the opportunity to join our Mentoring Scheme and build their professional network through AVM Connect. \nJoin AVM today to access your discount for this event.
URL:https://volunteermanagers.org.uk/event/volunteer-inductions/
LOCATION:Online on Zoom
CATEGORIES:Learning & Development
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://volunteermanagers.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/desola-lanre-ologun-IgUR1iX0mqM-unsplash-scaled.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20260127T123000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20260127T153000
DTSTAMP:20260602T215700
CREATED:20251027T162610Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20251027T162610Z
UID:172863-1769517000-1769527800@volunteermanagers.org.uk
SUMMARY:Peer Support Networking Meeting: South East England
DESCRIPTION:Tuesday 27 January 2026 | 12.30pm to 3.30pm | Reading\nTickets: Free\nThe January meeting of the South East England Peer Support Networking Group will provide an opportunity to get together and network with other volunteer management professionals. \nEveryone is welcome\, although booking is essential as places are limited by the venue capacity. \nAbout AVM’s regional Peer Support Networking Groups\nOur Peer Support Networking Groups aim to bring people together to develop\, connect and empower one another as well as further the volunteer management profession. \nThey are managed by a regional Peer Support Group Lead\, and free of charge for anyone working in volunteer management. \nWe are slowly expanding face-to-face networking opportunities across the four nations\, although everyone is welcome to attend any meeting\, regardless of where they are based. \nWe will announce meeting dates for other regional groups over the coming months. If you are not an AVM Member\, make sure that you are subscribed to our Newsletters to get the latest updates for new meetings in your area. \nPeer Support Group Lead\nChris Wade \nVenue\nReading University \nBooking\nBook your place via our online booking form.
URL:https://volunteermanagers.org.uk/event/peer-support-networking-meeting-south-east-england-january-2026/
LOCATION:Reading University
CATEGORIES:Networking
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://volunteermanagers.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/South-East-Networking-Group.jpeg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20260121T100000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20260121T123000
DTSTAMP:20260602T215700
CREATED:20251217T112912Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260105T124949Z
UID:178008-1768989600-1768998600@volunteermanagers.org.uk
SUMMARY:Peer Support Networking Meeting: Scotland
DESCRIPTION:Wednesday 21 January 2026 | 10am to 12.30pm | Edinburgh\nTickets: Free\nThe next meeting of the Scotland Peer Support Networking Group will provide an opportunity for anyone working in volunteer management to connect with other volunteer managers\, share best practices\, pick up new ideas and collaborate with each other. \nEveryone is welcome\, although booking is essential as places are limited by the venue capacity. \nPlease note that there is a maximum of one person from any organisation. \nThe meeting will open at 10am with an opportunity for refreshments and a chat\, before starting at 10.30am. \nAbout AVM’s regional Peer Support Networking Groups\nOur new Peer Support Networking Groups aim to bring people together to develop\, connect and empower one another as well as further the volunteer management profession. \nThey are managed by a regional Peer Support Group Lead\, and free of charge for anyone working in volunteer management. \nWe are slowly expanding face-to-face networking opportunities across the four nations\, although everyone is welcome to attend any meeting\, regardless of where they are based. \nWe will announce meeting dates for other regional groups over the coming months. If you are not an AVM Member\, make sure that you are subscribed to our Newsletters to get the latest updates for new meetings in your area. \nPeer Support Group Leads\nClaire Burrell & Karen Filsell \nVenue\nVillage Hall\, The Crannie\, 9 Cranston Street\, Edinburgh\, EH8 8BE. \nThis is a short walk (5 mins max) from Edinburgh Waverley station. \nBooking\nBook your place via our online booking form.
URL:https://volunteermanagers.org.uk/event/peer-support-networking-meeting-scotland-jan-2026/
CATEGORIES:Networking
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://volunteermanagers.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/Peer-Support-Networking-Events.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20260121T093000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20260121T110000
DTSTAMP:20260602T215700
CREATED:20251201T153306Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260128T131251Z
UID:177783-1768987800-1768993200@volunteermanagers.org.uk
SUMMARY:Members' Free Think-in: Volunteers’ Week Planning
DESCRIPTION:Wednesday 21 January 2026 | 9.30 to 11am | Online via Zoom\nTicket price: Free for AVM Members\nAre you looking for new and creative ways to celebrate your volunteers during Volunteers’ Week? \nOr wondering how to create an inclusive\, memorable event on any budget? \nWhether you’re just starting your Volunteers’ Week plans or looking to fine-tune your activities\, this session will bring volunteer managers together to share innovative ideas and support each other through open conversation and peer learning. \nThere will be whole-group activities\, focused small-group breakout discussions\, and opportunities for guided reflection. \nYou will: \n\nExchange ideas and get inspiration from proven activities.\nTroubleshoot challenges and gain insights from your peers.\nCapture takeaways and actionable steps for your celebrations.\nMake meaningful new connections and expand your support network.\n\nJoin us at this informal and friendly idea-sharing event to kickstart your ideas and planning for Volunteers’ Week 2026 and leave with practical inspiration for celebrating your volunteers. \nAbout AVM Members’ Free Think-ins\nAVM Members’ Free Think-ins are exclusive\, member-only events focused on learning\, networking\, and professional growth for volunteer managers. They are designed to create space for fresh thinking and practical solutions to the challenges that our members and the wider sector are currently facing. \nThey are: \n\nPeer-led\, interactive\, and supportive – perfect at any planning stage.\nPacked with actionable tips\, shared resources\, and motivation.\nAn opportunity to celebrate successes and learn how others overcome barriers.\n\nNot an AVM Member?\nIf you’re not an AVM member\, you can join AVM today to gain access to this event\, as well as lots of other benefits including access to other free member-only events\, discounts for all public events and the annual AVM conference.  \nYou will also have access to the AVM BiteSize webcasts and AVM Replay videos of previous events\, including our annual conference.  \nMembers also have the opportunity to join our mentoring scheme and build their professional network through AVM Connect. \nJoin AVM now \nThis is a free event with a limited number of places available\nPlease only sign up if you are definitely able to attend. If your availability changes and you can no longer attend\, please email us to cancel your place and allow others to book a place and attend instead. Thank you.
URL:https://volunteermanagers.org.uk/event/volunteers-week-2026-inspiration-exchange/
LOCATION:Online on Zoom
CATEGORIES:Member-only event
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://volunteermanagers.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/idea_1764171411-scaled.jpeg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20260119T090000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20260119T104500
DTSTAMP:20260602T215700
CREATED:20251203T105725Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20251203T105725Z
UID:177831-1768813200-1768819500@volunteermanagers.org.uk
SUMMARY:Peer Support Networking Meeting: London
DESCRIPTION:Monday 19 January 2026 | 9am to 10.45am | London\nTickets: Free\nWe’re back where it all began 12 months ago! Come and meet others supporting volunteers in London in our free\, face to face Peer Support Network. \nWe’ve had a fantastic year of partnering with a wide range of individuals and organisations doing exciting things in the volunteer management space. \nWe’ve heard Clare from Sculpt talk about her journey from Head of Volunteering to CEO; met Neda\, Reza\, Narges and Khanda to learn about their experiences of volunteering in the asylum seeker process and had a whistle stop tour from a panel of experts on the history of employee volunteering and how we can leverage it in the current climate. \nPeople have told us they like ‘the interactivity and collaboration’ of the meetings and ‘being able to meet an amazing array of people and organisations’. \nAs we see in 2026 we’re starting with a celebration. This is your chance to come along\, connect\, share and celebrate everything you are doing in your charity so we start 2026 with a bang. We’ll be using a range of tools to help us see the positive impact we’re making no matter how big or small our charity. \nEveryone is welcome\, including those who haven’t attended before and those who aren’t members of AVM\, although booking is essential as places are limited by the venue capacity. Tea\, coffee and biscuits will be available! \nWe look forward to meeting you. \nAbout AVM’s regional Peer Support Networking Groups\nOur new Peer Support Networking Groups aim to bring people together to develop\, connect and empower one another as well as further the volunteer management profession. \nThey are managed by a regional Peer Support Group Lead\, and free of charge for anyone working in volunteer management. \nWe are slowly expanding face-to-face networking opportunities across the four nations\, although everyone is welcome to attend any meeting\, regardless of where they are based. \nWe will announce meeting dates for other regional groups over the coming months. If you are not an AVM Member\, make sure that you are subscribed to our Newsletters to get the latest updates for new meetings in your area. \nPeer Support Group Leads\nSusannah Hodge and Jess Young \nVenue\nPPL Hub\, St. Saviour’s Wharf\, 23 Mill Street\, London\, SE1 2BE\nAccess through building E-F\, please ring Unit 3 or the Porter at the gate.\nNearest Tube is London Bridge: 14 mins walk\nNearest Station is Bermondsey: 11 mins walk\nClosest Buses: 381\, 47\, 188 \nAccessibility\nThe entrance to the building has steps (a portable ramp is available) and a fully accessible bathroom is available.\nIf you have any accessibility requirements\, please include these in the relevant section of the booking form so that the meeting organiser can explore how they can be accommodated for you. \nBooking\nBook your place via our online booking form.
URL:https://volunteermanagers.org.uk/event/peer-support-networking-meeting-london-jan-2026/
LOCATION:PPL Hub\, St. Saviour's Wharf\, 23 Mill Street\, London\, SE1 2BE\, United Kingdom
CATEGORIES:Networking
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://volunteermanagers.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/Peer-Support-Networking-Events.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20260112T110000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20260112T130000
DTSTAMP:20260602T215700
CREATED:20251107T101119Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20251107T101236Z
UID:177529-1768215600-1768222800@volunteermanagers.org.uk
SUMMARY:Peer Support Networking Meeting: Yorkshire
DESCRIPTION:Monday 12 January 2026 | 11am to 1pm | Leeds\nTickets: Free \nThe next meeting of the Yorkshire Peer Support Networking Group will be discussing a couple of topics from the last meeting\, including increasing the diversity of volunteer cohorts\, and training and development of volunteers (including eLearning).  \nEveryone is welcome\, although booking is essential as places are limited by the venue capacity. \nAbout AVM’s regional Peer Support Networking Groups\nOur Peer Support Networking Groups aim to bring people together to develop\, connect and empower one another as well as further the volunteer management profession. \nThey are managed by a regional Peer Support Group Lead\, and free of charge for anyone working in volunteer management. \nWe are slowly expanding face-to-face networking opportunities across the four nations\, although everyone is welcome to attend any meeting\, regardless of where they are based. \nWe will announce meeting dates for other regional groups over the coming months. If you are not an AVM Member\, make sure that you are subscribed to our Newsletters to get the latest updates for new meetings in your area. \nPeer Support Group Lead\nLucy Smith \nVenue \nCanal & River Trust\, 21 The Calls\, Leeds\, LS2 7EH \nLeeds train station is about a 7 minute walk away. \nBooking \nBook your place via our online booking form.
URL:https://volunteermanagers.org.uk/event/peer-support-networking-meeting-yorkshire-jan-2026/
LOCATION:Canal & River Trust\, 21 The Calls\, Leeds\, LS2 7EH\, United Kingdom
CATEGORIES:Networking
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://volunteermanagers.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/Peer-Support-Networking-Events.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20251205T100000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20251205T113000
DTSTAMP:20260602T215700
CREATED:20251027T113741Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20251120T131224Z
UID:177306-1764928800-1764934200@volunteermanagers.org.uk
SUMMARY:Spark Joy: Reimagining Volunteer Engagement (Plus AVM AGM)
DESCRIPTION:Friday 5 December 2025 | 10am to 11.30am | Online via Zoom\nFree for AVM Members\nExamine case studies from across the world of volunteering to reconsider how your organisation works with volunteers. \n\nHow do volunteers feel?\nHow can volunteers engage with our organisations more?\nCan we marry organisational\, and volunteers needs better?\nCan we do less and have more impact?\n\nThis session will examine some new ways of thinking about our organisations and the role of volunteers. It will draw upon recent research and several case studies from across the world of volunteering\, offering you opportunities to think more creatively about your organisation’s volunteering offer. \nThis will include looking at organisational touchpoints\, learning through volunteering and casual volunteering. Throughout the session we will examine volunteer motivations and how we can curate experiences to improve recruitment and retention. \nThis event will cover:\n\nHow we can enhance volunteer experiences.\nThe role learning plays within volunteering and how it can benefit organisations.\nHow we can offer more flexibility for volunteers and new forms of volunteering.\nUnderstanding sector wide challenges.\nActionable insights to improve practice.\n\nThis event is being combined with the AVM AGM and all AVM Members are invited to join us for both parts of it. \nAbout the speakers\nJenny Raschbauer \nJenny started volunteering as a child and has volunteered or worked with volunteers for the past 30 years. She has recruited and trained 2 volunteer teams from scratch\, led a team of 120 and indirectly supported volunteers through a wide range of organisations. Jenny delivered volunteer management training both regionally for the National Trust\, and for Derbyshire Voluntary Action ensuring that delivery was tailored to the audience\, grass-roots groups and charities in the case of the latter. More recently she has been completed a Master’s of Business Administration which has allowed her to undertake original research examining the role of learning in volunteer experiences and delve deeply into leadership in the sector. This year she has launched Social Sector Support and online learning platform for people in the social sector\, covering topics such as volunteering\, leadership\, change management and fundraising. \nKatie Wilson \nKatie is a passionate professional with nearly two decades of experience in the voluntary sector. Since 2006\, she has worked with a range of organisations—including the National Trust\, Cranleigh Arts Centre\, and Sensory Services by Sight for Surrey—gaining deep insight into the power of volunteer engagement. Katie has a proven track record of revitalising volunteer programmes\, successfully redeveloping the volunteer offer at two organisations and improving recruitment and retention. Her approach focuses on creating meaningful\, rewarding experiences that empower volunteers to help organisations deliver their mission. Currently\, Katie serves as a Community Development Worker at Rushmoor Voluntary Services\, where she leads a variety of projects\, including initiatives supporting migrants as they settle into the local area. Her work is driven by a passion for inclusion\, connection\, and lasting impact.
URL:https://volunteermanagers.org.uk/event/reimagining-volunteer-engagement-agm/
LOCATION:Online on Zoom
CATEGORIES:Member-only event
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://volunteermanagers.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/Sparking-an-idea-with-lightbulbs.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20251202T140000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20251202T160000
DTSTAMP:20260602T215700
CREATED:20251027T125440Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20251027T125655Z
UID:177312-1764684000-1764691200@volunteermanagers.org.uk
SUMMARY:Peer Support Networking Meeting: North West England
DESCRIPTION:Tuesday 2 December 2025 | 2pm – 4pm | Manchester\nTickets: Free\nThe next meeting of the North West England Peer Support Networking Group will provide an opportunity to get together and network with other volunteer management professionals. \nEveryone is welcome\, although booking is essential as places are limited by the venue capacity. \nAbout AVM’s regional Peer Support Networking Groups\nOur new Peer Support Networking Groups aim to bring people together to develop\, connect and empower one another as well as further the volunteer management profession. \nThey are managed by a regional Peer Support Group Lead\, and free of charge for anyone working in volunteer management. \nWe are slowly expanding face-to-face networking opportunities across the four nations\, although everyone is welcome to attend any meeting\, regardless of where they are based. \nWe will announce meeting dates for other regional groups over the coming months. If you are not an AVM Member\, make sure that you are subscribed to our Newsletters to get the latest updates for new meetings in your area. \nPeer Support Group Lead\nAimee Packwood \nVenue\nWilkinson Room\, St Thomas’s Centre\, Ardwick Green North\, Manchester\, M12 6FZ \nBooking\nBook your place via our online booking form.
URL:https://volunteermanagers.org.uk/event/peer-support-networking-meeting-north-west-england-dec-2025/
LOCATION:St Thomas’s Centre\, Gaskell Room\, St Thomas’s Centre\, Ardwick Green North\, Manchester\, M12 6FZ\, United Kingdom
CATEGORIES:Networking
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://volunteermanagers.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/Peer-Support-Networking-Events.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20251118T103000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20251118T123000
DTSTAMP:20260602T215700
CREATED:20250924T113015Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250924T113015Z
UID:174666-1763461800-1763469000@volunteermanagers.org.uk
SUMMARY:Peer Support Networking Meeting: Scotland
DESCRIPTION:Tuesday 18 November 2025 | 10.30am to 12.30pm | Glasgow\nTickets: Free\nThe next meeting of the Scotland Peer Support Networking Group will provide an opportunity for anyone working in volunteer management to connect with other volunteer managers\, share best practices\, pick up new ideas and collaborate with each other. \nEveryone is welcome\, although booking is essential as places are limited by the venue capacity. \nPlease note that there is a maximum of one person from any organisation. \nAbout AVM’s regional Peer Support Networking Groups\nOur new Peer Support Networking Groups aim to bring people together to develop\, connect and empower one another as well as further the volunteer management profession. \nThey are managed by a regional Peer Support Group Lead\, and free of charge for anyone working in volunteer management. \nWe are slowly expanding face-to-face networking opportunities across the four nations\, although everyone is welcome to attend any meeting\, regardless of where they are based. \nWe will announce meeting dates for other regional groups over the coming months. If you are not an AVM Member\, make sure that you are subscribed to our Newsletters to get the latest updates for new meetings in your area. \nPeer Support Group Leads \nClaire Burrell & Karen Filsell \nVenue\nDuke Room\, Virgin Money\, 4 Royal Exchange Square\, Glasgow\, G1 3AB.  \n2 minutes’ walk from Glasgow Queen Street station\, 10 minutes walk from Glasgow Central station. Buses run close by as well. \nThe entrance to the branch is just off Queen Street on Royal Exchange Square\, overlooking the Gallery of Modern Art (and the Duke of Wellington).  \nVirgin Money will provide tea\, coffee or chilled water. Attendees can bring snacks or cold food to eat in the room.  \nAccessibility\nThe Virgin Money branch is fully accessible. The meeting room is on the 2nd floor\, accessible by lift.
URL:https://volunteermanagers.org.uk/event/peer-support-networking-meeting-scotland-november-2025/
LOCATION:Virgin Money (Glasgow)\, Duke Room\, Virgin Money\, 4 Royal Exchange Square\, Glasgow\, G1 3AB\, United Kingdom
CATEGORIES:Networking
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://volunteermanagers.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/Peer-Support-Networking-Events.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20251106T093000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20251106T110000
DTSTAMP:20260602T215700
CREATED:20250218T163517Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20251027T114504Z
UID:172849-1762421400-1762426800@volunteermanagers.org.uk
SUMMARY:Members’ Forum: Working with Emotions in Volunteering (4) - Performing Emotions Effectively
DESCRIPTION:Thursday 6 November 2025 | 9.30am to 11am | Online via Zoom\nFree for AVM Members\nIn October 2021\, a free online toolkit ‘Working with Emotions in Volunteering’ was launched with AVM\, which aims to help managers of volunteers develop and practice skills around working with emotions effectively. \nThe toolkit was developed by Profs Anne-marie Greene and Jenna Ward following a decade of research with voluntary sector partners into working with emotions as a key volunteer management skill. \nFollowing a successful refresher session on the Toolkit in June 2024\, a series of four AVM Members’ Forum sessions have now been designed. These offer a deeper understanding of the Toolkit and the research behind it. The focus is on how the Toolkit can help you and your teams deal more effectively with the emotional challenges of being a manager of volunteers. Each session is distinct and can be attended seperately. \nThe Series\nSession 1 – Mapping Your Emotional Landscape (3 April)\nSession 2 – Keeping Things in Perspective (12 June)\nSession 3 – Having Courageous Conversation (11 September)\nSession 4 – Performing Emotions Effectively (6 November) \nEach session will involve: \n\nInput from the facilitators on research findings and evidence\nPractical small group exercises using the Toolkit\nAn open Q&A and troubleshooting session on the Toolkit.\n\nPerforming Emotions Effectively\nWorking with emotions as a key volunteer management skill also involves the framing and performance of your own emotions. This session will focus on how active demonstrations and expression of your own love and passion for your place of work and what it does and stands for can really improve relationships with volunteers\, enhancing your shared experiences. Thinking about ways to explicitly and regularly express your love and passion is important\, even if you do not always ‘feel’ it. \nLearning objectives:\n\nUnderstand the importance of emotional framing and emotional performances.\nGain knowledge of some techniques for expressing love and passion.\n\nAbout the speakers\nAnne-marie Greene – Professor of Work and Diversity and Director of Research Impact at the School for Business and Society\, University of York \nAnne-marie researches equality\, diversity and inclusion (EDI) in theory and practice. A particular research interest is the interface between work\, life\, family and community\, especially where a sense of calling\, mission or activism is required. This often concerns areas of work that stand outside of the standard employment relationship and which are less formally regulated\, bringing with them challenges of management policy and practice and issues of inequality. Research projects have involved volunteer managers and volunteers\, clergy\, actors\, freelance creatives\, diversity consultants and trade union representatives. Anne-marie is Artistic Director and Trustee of the Criterion Theatre\, Coventry\, a volunteer-run charity. \nJenna Ward – Professor of Organisation\, Work and Emotion and Dean of the College of Business and Law at Coventry University \nJenna’s research focuses on exploring emotionality within organisations\, organising and managing. Prioritising marginalised voices\, Jenna employs and develops innovative arts-based research methods that complement her ethnographically informed research designs to observe and probe beyond the surface of both organisations and individual experiences of work and organisations. Areas of interest include: emotional labour\, dirty work\, emotional dirty work\, visual and arts-based methods\, creative industries\, health care\, death work and the management and organisation of voluntary work and volunteers. Research has included working with organisations such as the Department of Health\, the National Trust\, the City of London\, NHS\, Samaritans and\, most recently\, England Netball. \nNot an AVM Member?\nIf you’re not an AVM member\, you can join AVM today to gain access to this event\, as well as lots of other benefits including access to other free member-only events\, discounts for all public events and the annual AVM conference.  \nYou will also have access to the AVM BiteSize webcasts and AVM Replay videos of previous events\, including our annual conference.  \nMembers also have the opportunity to join our mentoring scheme and build their professional network through AVM Connect. \nJoin AVM now \nThis is a free event with a limited number of places available\nPlease only sign up if you are definitely able to attend. If your availability changes and you can no longer attend\, please email us to cancel your place and allow others to book a place and attend instead. Thank you.
URL:https://volunteermanagers.org.uk/event/members-forum-working-with-emotions-in-volunteering-session-4/
LOCATION:Online on Zoom
CATEGORIES:Member-only event
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://volunteermanagers.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Working-with-Emotions-Toolkit-Event-page-graphic.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20251105T110000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20251105T130000
DTSTAMP:20260602T215700
CREATED:20250912T083018Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250912T083018Z
UID:176754-1762340400-1762347600@volunteermanagers.org.uk
SUMMARY:Peer Support Networking Meeting: East Midlands
DESCRIPTION:Wednesday 5 November 2025 | 11am to 1pm | Nottingham\nTickets: Free\nThe next meeting of the East Midlands Peer Support Networking Group is an opportunity for anyone working in volunteer management to connect with other volunteer managers\, share best practices\, pick up new ideas and collaborate with others. \nEveryone is welcome\, although booking is essential as places are limited by the venue capacity. \nAbout our regional Peer Support Networking Groups\nOur new Peer Support Networking Groups aim to bring people together to develop\, connect and empower one another as well as further the volunteer management profession. \nThey are managed by a regional Peer Support Group Lead\, and free of charge for anyone working in volunteer management. \nWe are slowly expanding face-to-face networking opportunities across the four nations\, although everyone is welcome to attend any meeting\, regardless of where they are based. \nWe will announce meeting dates for other regional groups over the coming months. If you are not an AVM Member\, make sure that you are subscribed to our Newsletters to get the latest updates for new meetings in your area. \nPeer Support Group Lead\nRob Jackson \nVenue\nDryden Enterprise Centre\, Nottingham Trent University\, Dryden Street\, Nottingham\, NG1 4FQ \nBooking\nBook your place via our online booking form.
URL:https://volunteermanagers.org.uk/event/peer-support-networking-meeting-east-midlands-nov-2025/
LOCATION:Nottingham Trent University\, Dryden Enterprise Centre\, Nottingham Trent University\, Dryden Street\,\, Nottingham\, NG1 4FQ\, United Kingdom
CATEGORIES:Networking
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://volunteermanagers.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/Peer-Support-Networking-Events.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20251029T103000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20251029T123000
DTSTAMP:20260602T215700
CREATED:20250818T153000Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20251118T150645Z
UID:176376-1761733800-1761741000@volunteermanagers.org.uk
SUMMARY:Mentoring: Introduction to Mentoring (for Mentors)
DESCRIPTION:Wednesday 29 October 2025 | 10.30am to 12.30pm | Online via Zoom\nFree for AVM Members taking part in the Mentoring scheme\nThis session will provide mentors with the opportunity to build a community of practice to support them in their mentoring whether you are new to mentoring or have an established track record in supporting mentees. It will cover: \n\nA brief overview of the mentor handbook\nThe difference between mentoring and other types of support\nThe importance of agreeing the expectations and boundaries of the relationship\nKey skills for mentors\nWorking with the mentee to set their goals\nThe importance of supervision and how AVM will support this\nBuilding a Community of Practice for mentors.\n\nThis event is only available for AVM Members who were matched with a mentee in the October 2025 Mentoring scheme. \nAbout the facilitator\nDr Nicky Adams\, the AVM Mentoring Scheme Lead Volunteer\, will be facilitating the session. Nicky is a Senior Lecturer in HR and Leadership at the University of Wolverhampton. She is an experienced lecturer\, teacher\, facilitator\, Learning and Development professional\, coach and mentor\, specialising in helping others develop their own skills in the areas of management and leadership\, change management\, facilitation\, training\, coaching and mentoring. \nNot an AVM Member?\nIf you’re not an AVM member\, you can join AVM today to gain access to this event\, as well as lots of other benefits including access to other free member-only events\, discounts for all public events and the annual AVM conference.  \nYou will also have access to the AVM BiteSize webcasts and AVM Replay videos of previous events\, including our annual conference.  \nMembers also have the opportunity to build their professional network through AVM Connect. \nJoin AVM now
URL:https://volunteermanagers.org.uk/event/mentoring-introduction-to-mentoring-mentors-october-2025/
LOCATION:Online on Zoom
CATEGORIES:Member-only event
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://volunteermanagers.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/amy-hirschi-K0c8ko3e6AA-unsplash-scaled.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20251029T093000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20251029T101500
DTSTAMP:20260602T215700
CREATED:20250818T151806Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20251118T150655Z
UID:176365-1761730200-1761732900@volunteermanagers.org.uk
SUMMARY:Mentoring: Introduction to Mentoring (for Mentees)
DESCRIPTION:Wednesday 29 October 2025 | 9.30am to 10.15am | Online via Zoom\nFree for AVM Members taking part in the Mentoring scheme\nThis session will provide mentees with some guidance and support about the process and ensure you get the most out of your first sessions with your mentor. It will cover:\n \n\nA brief overview of the mentee handbook\nWhat mentoring within the AVM programme means\nHow mentoring can support you as a mentee\nIdentify your goals for the mentoring programme\nBuild a supportive mentee group \n\nThis session is only available for AVM Members who were matched with a mentor in the October 2025 Mentoring scheme. \nAbout the facilitator\nDr Nicky Adams\, the AVM Mentoring Scheme Lead Volunteer\, will be facilitating the session. Nicky is a Senior Lecturer in HR and Leadership at the University of Wolverhampton. She is an experienced lecturer\, teacher\, facilitator\, Learning and Development professional\, coach and mentor\, specialising in helping others develop their own skills in the areas of management and leadership\, change management\, facilitation\, training\, coaching and mentoring. \nNot an AVM Member?\nIf you’re not an AVM member\, you can join AVM today to gain access to this event\, as well as lots of other benefits including access to other free member-only events\, discounts for all public events and the annual AVM conference.  \nYou will also have access to the AVM BiteSize webcasts and AVM Replay videos of previous events\, including our annual conference.  \nMembers also have the opportunity to build their professional network through AVM Connect. \nJoin AVM now
URL:https://volunteermanagers.org.uk/event/mentoring-introduction-to-mentoring-mentees-october-2025/
LOCATION:Online on Zoom
CATEGORIES:Member-only event
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://volunteermanagers.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/amy-hirschi-K0c8ko3e6AA-unsplash-scaled.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20251023T123000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20251023T153000
DTSTAMP:20260602T215700
CREATED:20250804T113210Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250804T113210Z
UID:172862-1761222600-1761233400@volunteermanagers.org.uk
SUMMARY:Peer Support Networking Meeting: South East England
DESCRIPTION:Thursday 23 October 2025 | 12.30pm to 3.30pm | West Sussex\nTickets: Free\nThe October meeting of the South East England Peer Support Networking Group will be focusing on the theme of helping colleagues who are not volunteer managers. \nEveryone is welcome\, although booking is essential as places are limited by the venue capacity. \nAbout AVM’s regional Peer Support Networking Groups\nOur Peer Support Networking Groups aim to bring people together to develop\, connect and empower one another as well as further the volunteer management profession. \nThey are managed by a regional Peer Support Group Lead\, and free of charge for anyone working in volunteer management. \nWe are slowly expanding face-to-face networking opportunities across the four nations\, although everyone is welcome to attend any meeting\, regardless of where they are based. \nWe will announce meeting dates for other regional groups over the coming months. If you are not an AVM Member\, make sure that you are subscribed to our Newsletters to get the latest updates for new meetings in your area. \nPeer Support Group Lead\nChris Wade \nVenue\nDogs Trust\, Brighton Road\, Shoreham by Sea\, West Sussex\, BN43 5LT \nBooking\nBooking your place via online booking form.
URL:https://volunteermanagers.org.uk/event/peer-support-networking-meeting-south-east-england-october-2025/
LOCATION:Dogs Trust Shoreham\, Brighton Road\, Shoreham by Sea\, West Sussex\, BN43 5LT\, United Kingdom
CATEGORIES:Networking
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END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20251016T180000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20251016T193000
DTSTAMP:20260602T215700
CREATED:20250820T104923Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250820T105154Z
UID:176422-1760637600-1760643000@volunteermanagers.org.uk
SUMMARY:Peer Support Networking Meeting: London
DESCRIPTION:Thursday 16 October 2025 | 6pm to 7.30pm | London\nTickets: Free\nJoin us at the end of the last day of the online AVM conference for the first AVM London Peer Support Network evening social event with food and drink! \nLewisham Donation Hub\, The Mayor of Lewisham’s charity of the year 2025/26\, is a multi-purpose donation hub based in South East London. The Hub has been actively recruiting and supporting people seeking asylum as volunteers for over 5 years to support activity in their busy distribution hub. Find out more about Lewisham Donation Hub here. \nCome along to this relaxed\, informal social event and hear from those both involved in volunteering and managing volunteers to learn more on connecting and supporting this valuable and often untapped group of potential volunteers in London with plenty of opportunity for networking. \nEveryone is welcome\, you do not need to be a member of AVM to come and many of our events include first timers who are most welcome\, although booking is essential as places are limited by the venue capacity. \nAs food and drink will be provided for this event\, we would ask that if you book and then are no longer able to attend that you please let us know by emailing: london@volunteermanagers.org.uk \nSusannah and Jess look forward to meeting you. \nAbout AVM’s regional Peer Support Networking Groups\nOur new Peer Support Networking Groups aim to bring people together to develop\, connect and empower one another as well as further the volunteer management profession. \nThey are managed by a regional Peer Support Group Lead\, and free of charge for anyone working in volunteer management. \nWe are slowly expanding face-to-face networking opportunities across the four nations\, although everyone is welcome to attend any meeting\, regardless of where they are based. \nWe will announce meeting dates for other regional groups over the coming months. If you are not an AVM Member\, make sure that you are subscribed to our Newsletters to get the latest updates for new meetings in your area. \nPeer Support Group Leads\nSusannah Hodge and Jess Young \nVenue\nLewisham Donation Hub\, Unit D\, Place Ladywell\, 261 Lewisham High Street\, SE13 6AY.\nLadywell station is a 5 minute walk and has direct links from London Bridge station. \nAccessibility and dietary requirements\nIf you have any accessibility requirements or dietary requirements\, please include these in the relevant section of the booking form so that the meeting organiser can explore how they can be accommodated for you. \nBooking\nBooking your place via our online booking form.
URL:https://volunteermanagers.org.uk/event/peer-support-networking-meeting-london-oct-2025/
LOCATION:Lewisham Donation Hub\, Unit D\, Place Ladywell\, 261 Lewisham High Street\, London\, SE13 6AY\, United Kingdom
CATEGORIES:Networking
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END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20251015T090000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20251016T150000
DTSTAMP:20260602T215700
CREATED:20250714T110946Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20251118T150714Z
UID:175233-1760518800-1760626800@volunteermanagers.org.uk
SUMMARY:AVM Conference 2025 - Event Information & Tickets
DESCRIPTION:15-16 October 2025 | 9.10am – 3pm | Online via Zoom \nAVM’s annual conference is highly regarded as one of the best learning events for volunteer managers\, leaders and heads of volunteering. \nThe role of volunteer managers is ever evolving\, and this year’s conference will provide you with the opportunity to delve into key aspects of our profession\, providing you with the opportunity to gain insights from leading voices and learn about best practices alongside peers from across the sector. \nEach day will include an informative and inspiring keynote\, a choice of engaging workshops\, and a thought-provoking panel discussion — all designed to challenge your thinking\, spark new ideas\, and support you in your role. \nKeynotes\nBoth days will start with an inspirational keynote from our guest speakers who will be exploring the significance of community research\, engagement\, and outreach in facilitating social action initiatives and the roles we can all play in fostering a more inclusive and equitable society through volunteerism and community involvement. \nWorkshops\nThis year\, there are twelve workshops to choose from. They have been structured around the following themes\, ensuring you gain targeted expertise in the topics that matter most to you: \n\nThe Volunteer Experience: From Recruitment To Retention\nBuilding Your Volunteering Infrastructure\nInclusive Volunteering: Engaging Diverse Communities\nThriving As A Volunteer Manager: Wellbeing And Professional Development\n\nPanels\nEach day will include an insightful panel discussion. Hear from representatives from key volunteering bodies in England\, Wales\, Scotland and Ireland in the ‘Four Nations’ panel on Wednesday\, and from peers on how volunteer-led initiatives are driving significant\, positive change within organisations in the ‘Succeeding with Volunteer Voice Initiatives’ panel on Thursday. \nMeet the Sponsors\nThe conference sponsors will be running Meet the Sponsor sessions during the lunchbreaks\, giving you the opportunity to speak to them about the products and services that they offer. \nProgramme\nWednesday 15 October 2025\n9.10am – Registration\n9.30am – Welcome by Ruth Leonard (Chair\, AVM)\n9.40am – Keynote: Kheron Gilpin\n10.40am – Break\n10.55am – Workshops 1-6\n12pm – Lunch*\n12.45pm – Workshops 7-12\n1.55pm – Panel: Four Nations\n3pm – Close \nThursday 16 October 2025\n9.10am – Registration\n9.30am – Welcome by Ruth Leonard (Chair\, AVM)\n9.40am – Keynote: Siân Whyte\n10.40am – Break\n10.55am – Workshops 1-6\n12pm – Lunch*\n12.45pm – Workshops 7-12\n1.55pm – Panel: Succeeding with Volunteer Voice Initiatives\n3pm – Close \n*Delegates also have the opportunity to meet with the Conference Sponsors during the lunch break on both days. \nBased on feedback from previous conferences\, we will not be including dedicated networking sessions at this year’s event. Instead\, the conference will focus firmly on learning and development—designed to equip and energise you in your role with inspiring talks\, thought-provoking discussions\, and practical guidance. \nFor those looking to connect with peers\, we continue to offer free\, in-person Peer Support Networking Meetings throughout the year\, which provide dedicated space for connection and conversation. New events are added to our website regularly. \nFind out more about the programme sessions \nSponsors\nOur sponsors help us to keep our conference affordable. \n\n\n\n\nFind out more about the conference sponsors \nBuy your ticket\nAVM members are eligible for a discount on the conference ticket price. Please login to your account so that your discount can be automatically applied. \nIf you’re not an AVM member\, you can join AVM today to gain access to the conference\, as well as receiving lots of other benefits\, including access to free member-only events\, discounts for all public events and the annual AVM conference.  \nYou will also have access to the AVM BiteSize webcasts and AVM Replay videos of previous events. Members also have the opportunity to join our Mentoring Scheme and build their professional network through AVM Connect. \nJoin AVM today to access your discount for this event.
URL:https://volunteermanagers.org.uk/event/avm-conference-2025-event-information-tickets/
LOCATION:Online on Zoom
CATEGORIES:Conference
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END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20251001T130000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20251001T143000
DTSTAMP:20260602T215700
CREATED:20250707T141750Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250730T100320Z
UID:175356-1759323600-1759329000@volunteermanagers.org.uk
SUMMARY:Members' Forum: When Your Volunteers Disagree With You - Navigating Conflict With Volunteers
DESCRIPTION:Wednesday 1 October 2025 | 1pm to 2.30pm | Online via Zoom\nFree for AVM Members\n\nHave you struggled with disagreements with volunteers you support over the direction of a project or programme?\nWould you like to discover ways to manage conflict between volunteers and staff?\nWould you like to explore how to navigate between volunteers wants and needs\, and organisation strategy\, objectives and your own KPI’s?\n\nThis session will help you explore conflict with volunteers\, where volunteers disagree with staff about a project or way forward and how to tackle this.  We will look at when this might occur\, how to pre-empt this and also practical steps for dealing with conflict when it does arise.  There will be a short presentation from our facilitator\, and then a chance to practice dealing with these situations and sharing any current challenges that you might be having.  \nFor the smaller group activities we’ll be using scenarios\, that will be sent to participants prior to the session.  The scenarios will have varying perspectives from volunteers and staff members.  We’ll then have feedback from groups and a larger group discussion. \nThe event will finish with Action Learning Sets – providing an opportunity for you to discuss any challenges you may be experiencing related to the topic and receive ideas and insights from peers in your set. \nObjectives: \n\nLearn how to balance KPI’s\, organisational aims and strategies and the views of volunteers\nLearn how to pre-empt conflict between volunteers and staff leading on projects involving volunteers but putting in place consultation and clear communication\nLearn how to practically approach disagreements with volunteers.\n\nAbout the facilitator\nBradley Allsop currently works as a Senior Programme Officer for Generating Genius\, a social mobility charity that supports students from disadvantaged backgrounds. Bradley has worked across a number of charities as a staff member\, as a volunteer and as a trustee. This work has often involved supporting volunteers\, from recruiting and training\, to working alongside volunteers to co-produce events\, to supporting committees where volunteers use their voice to shape the work of the charity. \nAbout the Members’ Forums\nThis interactive online session is a space for peer learning\, inspiration\, and practical insights – an opportunity to share your experience and learn from others. \nWe’ll use interactive tools to capture ideas to develop a shared resource.  For part of the session\, we’ll be in action learning sets.  Using this model enables participants to share a situation\, learn from each other’s ideas and experiences and gain deeper understanding to apply to the situation and bring about change. \nWe invite you to bring a situation related to the topic of the Members’ Forum you’re attending to share within a small group.  The situation could be a problem\, challenge\, development issue or task and it needs to be current and specific\, involve you and requires you to take an action or make decisions. \nNot an AVM Member?\nIf you’re not an AVM member\, you can join AVM today to gain access to this event\, as well as lots of other benefits including access to other free member-only events\, discounts for all public events and the annual AVM conference.  \nYou will also have access to the AVM BiteSize webcasts and AVM Replay videos of previous events\, including our annual conference.  \nMembers also have the opportunity to join our mentoring scheme and build their professional network through AVM Connect. \nThis is a free event with a limited number of places available\nPlease only sign up if you are definitely able to attend. If your availability changes and you can no longer attend\, please email us to cancel your place at the earliest opportunity.  This will allow others to book a place and attend the event – Many thanks!
URL:https://volunteermanagers.org.uk/event/when-your-volunteers-disagree-with-you/
CATEGORIES:Member-only event
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://volunteermanagers.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/cherrydeck-05gac-Qn0k4-unsplash-scaled.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20250925T103000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20250925T123000
DTSTAMP:20260602T215700
CREATED:20250604T110554Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250604T110554Z
UID:174748-1758796200-1758803400@volunteermanagers.org.uk
SUMMARY:Peer Support Networking Meeting: West Midlands
DESCRIPTION:Thursday 25 September 2025 | 10.30am to 12.30pm | Birmingham\nTickets: Free\nThe next meeting of the West Midlands Peer Support Networking Group will provide an opportunity for anyone working in volunteer management to connect with other volunteer managers\, share best practices\, pick up new ideas and collaborate with each other. \nThe format of the meetings is relaxed and informal. We want these meetings to be as useful as possible to colleagues and will work with you to put together an agenda that covers topics you are interested in. In order to get the most out of the meeting\, please come along willing to share and participate. \nEveryone is welcome\, although booking is essential as places are limited by the venue capacity. \nThe meetings will be held three times a year. \nAbout AVM’s regional Peer Support Networking Groups\nOur new Peer Support Networking Groups aim to bring people together to develop\, connect and empower one another as well as further the volunteer management profession. \nThey are managed by a regional Peer Support Group Lead\, and free of charge for anyone working in volunteer management. \nWe are slowly expanding face-to-face networking opportunities across the four nations\, although everyone is welcome to attend any meeting\, regardless of where they are based. \nWe will announce meeting dates for other regional groups over the coming months. If you are not an AVM Member\, make sure that you are subscribed to our Newsletters to get the latest updates for new meetings in your area. \nPeer Support Group Lead\nCharlotte Witteridge \nVenue\nVirgin Money Birmingham\, 136-138 New Street\, Birmingham\, B2 4NS \nThe venue is located in the centre of Birmingham and is easily accessible via public transport (train\, bus and tram): \n\n3 minute walk from Birmingham New Street Station\n7 minute walk from Snow Hill Station\n6 minute walk from Moor Street Station\nMany local bus and tram services\nVarious local car parks\, including NCP Birmingham New Street\, Q-Park Mailbox\n\nPlease note that Birmingham operates a ‘clean air zone‘ for vehicles. \nAccessibility\nThe meeting room is located on the ground floor (no steps).\nIf you have any accessibility requirements\, please include these in the relevant section of the booking form so that the meeting organiser can explore how they can be accommodated for you.
URL:https://volunteermanagers.org.uk/event/peer-support-networking-meeting-west-midlands-september-2025/
LOCATION:Virgin Money Lounge (Birmingham)\, 136-138 New Street\, Birmingham\, Birmingham\, B2 4NS\, United Kingdom
CATEGORIES:Networking
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END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20250925T100000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20250925T120000
DTSTAMP:20260602T215700
CREATED:20250820T111913Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250820T111913Z
UID:176425-1758794400-1758801600@volunteermanagers.org.uk
SUMMARY:Peer Support Networking Meeting: North West England
DESCRIPTION:Thursday 25 September 2025 | 10am – 12pm | Manchester\nTickets: Free\nThe next meeting of the North West England Peer Support Networking Group will provide an opportunity to get together and network with other volunteer management professionals. \nEveryone is welcome\, although booking is essential as places are limited by the venue capacity. \nAbout AVM’s regional Peer Support Networking Groups\nOur new Peer Support Networking Groups aim to bring people together to develop\, connect and empower one another as well as further the volunteer management profession. \nThey are managed by a regional Peer Support Group Lead\, and free of charge for anyone working in volunteer management. \nWe are slowly expanding face-to-face networking opportunities across the four nations\, although everyone is welcome to attend any meeting\, regardless of where they are based. \nWe will announce meeting dates for other regional groups over the coming months. If you are not an AVM Member\, make sure that you are subscribed to our Newsletters to get the latest updates for new meetings in your area. \nPeer Support Group Lead\nAimee Packwood \nVenue\nGaskell Room\, St Thomas’s Centre\, Ardwick Green North\, Manchester\, M12 6FZ \nBooking\nBook your place via our online booking form.
URL:https://volunteermanagers.org.uk/event/peer-support-networking-meeting-north-west-england-sept-2025/
LOCATION:St Thomas’s Centre\, Gaskell Room\, St Thomas’s Centre\, Ardwick Green North\, Manchester\, M12 6FZ\, United Kingdom
CATEGORIES:Networking
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END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20250924T100000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20250924T120000
DTSTAMP:20260602T215700
CREATED:20250805T103738Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250805T110046Z
UID:176125-1758708000-1758715200@volunteermanagers.org.uk
SUMMARY:Peer Support Networking Meeting: Yorkshire
DESCRIPTION:Wednesday 24 September 2025 | 10am to 12pm | Sheffield\nTickets: Free\nThe first meeting of the Yorkshire Peer Support Networking Group is an opportunity to get everyone together for the first time\, network with each other\, and gauge interest for future meetings. \nEveryone is welcome\, although booking is essential as places are limited by the venue capacity. \nAbout AVM’s regional Peer Support Networking Groups\nOur new Peer Support Networking Groups aim to bring people together to develop\, connect and empower one another as well as further the volunteer management profession. \nThey are managed by a regional Peer Support Group Lead\, and free of charge for anyone working in volunteer management. \nWe are slowly expanding face-to-face networking opportunities across the four nations\, although everyone is welcome to attend any meeting\, regardless of where they are based. \nWe will announce meeting dates for other regional groups over the coming months. If you are not an AVM Member\, make sure that you are subscribed to our Newsletters to get the latest updates for new meetings in your area. \nPeer Support Group Lead\nLucy Smith \nVenue\nVirgin Money Sheffield\, 66 Fargate\, Sheffield City Centre\, Sheffield\, S1 2HE \nThe venue is located in the centre of Sheffield and is accessible via public transport. It is an 11 minute walk from Sheffield station. There are a number of car parks nearby – Carver Lane is around a 9 minute walk away and costs between £4-5. \nAccessibility\nThe building is listed as having disabled access and a hearing loop.
URL:https://volunteermanagers.org.uk/event/peer-support-networking-meeting-north-east-england-sept-2025/
LOCATION:Virgin Money Sheffield\, 66 Fargate\, Sheffield\, S1 2HE\, United Kingdom
CATEGORIES:Networking
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END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20250918T093000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20250918T113000
DTSTAMP:20260602T215700
CREATED:20250707T111617Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250820T091519Z
UID:175363-1758187800-1758195000@volunteermanagers.org.uk
SUMMARY:Building Bridges\, Breaking Barriers: Inclusive Volunteer Management
DESCRIPTION:Thursday 18 September 2025 | 9.30am to 11.30am | Online via Zoom\nTicket prices: Members £27 | Non-members £43\nWhat would it look like if inclusion wasn’t just a value\, but something we practised and built together? \nTo mark National Inclusion Week\, AVM are bringing together three speakers who will share practical insights on creating and developing communities where everyone feels they belong. \nThis session will explore how we can bring people together\, share best practices\, and drive real change with expert voices and peer-driven experiences to help you foster belonging\, challenge bias\, and ensure your volunteer programmes welcome and empower everyone. \nPeer learning is more than just a buzzword; it’s a powerful\, people-centred approach to change.  In a world where traditional training often talks at us\, peer learning invites us to talk with each other.  It creates a space where insight and shared challenges become tools for growth.  \nFor organisations\, investing in peer learning is an investment in resilience and innovation. It helps deepen inclusion and strengthen team dynamics\, especially in diverse volunteer settings.  For individuals\, it’s an opportunity to be seen and supported while developing practical skills and deeper cultural awareness.  \nThe event consists of three interconnected sessions that address challenges and solutions in fostering psychological safety\, embedding allyship\, broadening volunteer participation\, and responding to lived experiences of exclusion\, including: \n\nCalling out instances where subtle comments are made to make people feel less than\nFocusing on inclusion and belonging: inclusive environments that don’t exclude views\nBuild welcoming volunteer spaces where everyone feels safe and included\nManaging diverse volunteer teams effectively\nStrengthening connections and a sense of belonging within volunteer teams.\n\nThe sessions will blend expert input\, case studies\, peer discussion\, and scenario-based exercises.  You’ll gain practical tools\, real-world insights\, and a deeper understanding of how to build inclusive practices into day-to-day volunteer management. \nYou will leave with:\n\nPractical strategies to embed inclusion into everyday volunteer management\nConfidence to challenge bias and microaggressions with empathy and clarity\nTools to foster psychological safety and belonging in your volunteer teams\nNew recruitment and support approaches that centre diverse and marginalised volunteers\nInsights from real volunteer experiences and peer learning you can apply immediately\nGreater awareness of lived experience and how to lead with allyship.\n\nThis session is for anyone who believes that inclusion isn’t just a tick box – it’s a journey. If you’re ready to move from intention to action\, this webinar is where you start. Come ready to share\, reflect\, and leave inspired to make lasting change. \nAbout the sessions\nBuilding Bridges\, Breaking Barriers: Peer Learning for Inclusive Volunteer Management – with Joanne Lockwood\nThis session explores the practical realities of managing inclusive volunteer teams in the charity and not-for-profit sector. Designed for volunteer leaders seeking actionable strategies to support belonging\, foster psychological safety\, and address challenges that arise within diverse groups this session addresses: \n\nPsychological Safety: How to create environments in which volunteers feel respected\, valued\, and empowered to contribute their perspectives.\nChallenging Bias and Microaggressions: Recognising and responding to exclusionary behaviours – such as team members being interrupted or dismissed -with empathy and clarity.\nPeer Learning Approaches: Using collaborative models to reflect on and address real issues faced within volunteer teams\, supporting continuous improvement.\nScenario-Based Discussion: Attendees will work through a scenario involving exclusion within a volunteer team\, considering practical steps to restore safety and strengthen respectful interaction.\n\nParticipants will have opportunities to share insights and reflect on their own approaches\, gaining tools for embedding inclusion as an everyday leadership practice. The focus is on real-world examples\, peer dialogue\, and the implementation of strategies that build more connected\, effective volunteering environments. \nEngagement & Empowerment: Inclusive Volunteering in Action – with Eddie Hartley\nDiscover how visibility\, training\, and meaningful dialogue are driving inclusion at every level – from Rainbow Badges and Pride events to new training on tough conversations. Featuring impact stories from real volunteers and insights from the National Volunteer Forum. \nCreating Inclusive Volunteering at Sue Ryder: Lived Experience\, Allyship and Accessible Pathways – with Lucy Swann\nA deep dive into inclusive volunteering at Sue Ryder\, including kind and thoughtful risk assessment\, the Volunteer Inclusion Passport\, and how criminal justice partnerships are reshaping recruitment and inclusion across retail and hospice services. \nAbout the speakers\nJoanne Lockwood is the founder of SEE Change Happen and The Inclusion Bites Academy and Podcast\, a renowned speaker\, consultant\, and learning designer committed to creating inclusive cultures where people can thrive. Joanne partners with people-focused organisations to turn good intentions into practical action – helping build cultures of belonging where everyone can do their best work. She brings expertise in supporting HR teams\, DEI leads\, and people professionals to develop business-critical inclusion skills that move beyond performative gestures. \nEddie Hartley brings years of experience in the third sector\, with a background spanning retail management and national volunteer leadership. At Sue Ryder\, he leads the organisation’s healthcare and fundraising volunteering offer\, working with teams across multiple sites and communities to build inclusive\, engaging\, and future-focused volunteer experiences. Eddie is passionate about equity\, diversity\, and inclusion\, and is committed to amplifying volunteer voices\, removing barriers to participation\, and showcasing volunteers’ vital role in delivering social impact. \nLucy Swann is the Retail Volunteer Manager at Sue Ryder and has more than 20 years’ experience in volunteer management across healthcare\, heritage\, and retail. Driven by a passion for people\, Lucy is committed to making every interaction positive and breaking down barriers and bias wherever she can. Beyond her role at Sue Ryder\, Lucy also volunteers as a Magistrate in the criminal justice system and cares for older people in her community. \nAVM Members’ Discount\nAVM members are eligible for a discount on the event ticket price. Please login to your account so that your discount can be automatically applied. \nIf you’re not an AVM member\, you can join AVM today to gain access to this event\, as well as receiving lots of other benefits\, including access to free member-only events\, discounts for all public events and the annual AVM conference.  \nYou will also have access to the AVM BiteSize webcasts and AVM Replay videos of previous events\, including our annual conference. Members also have the opportunity to join our Mentoring Scheme and build their professional network through AVM Connect. \nJoin AVM today to access your discount for this event.
URL:https://volunteermanagers.org.uk/event/building-bridges-breaking-barriers/
CATEGORIES:Learning & Development
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