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DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20250708T140000
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DTSTAMP:20260603T002055
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UID:175118-1751983200-1751990400@volunteermanagers.org.uk
SUMMARY:Peer Support Networking Meeting: North West England
DESCRIPTION:Tuesday 8 July 2025 | 2pm to 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\nPlease note the change of venue to: Gaskell Room\, St Thomas’s Centre Ardwick Green N\, Manchester M12 6FZ \nBooking\nBooking your place via our online booking form.
URL:https://volunteermanagers.org.uk/event/peer-support-networking-meeting-north-west-england-july-2025/
LOCATION:The Children’s Society\, 17 Rowlands Way\, Wythenshawe\, M22 5RG\, 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:20250707T090000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20250707T104500
DTSTAMP:20260603T002055
CREATED:20250528T151958Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250602T130832Z
UID:174668-1751878800-1751885100@volunteermanagers.org.uk
SUMMARY:Peer Support Networking Meeting: London
DESCRIPTION:Monday 7 July 2025 | 9am (for 9.15am start) to 10.45am | London\nTickets: Free\nFollowing feedback from those who attended our previous meetings\, we’ll be running our third London face-to-face networking event on the topic of creating effective corporate partnerships with three speakers. \nSuzy Mayel-Afshar\, Head of Volunteer Programmes at DataKind; Jessica Costa Silva\, Corporate Engagement and Volunteer Manager at akt; and Nikki Squelch\, People Engagement Consultant will be sharing their wide-ranging experiences from getting started with corporate partnerships through to setting up and running employee/skilled volunteer programmes. \nAlongside hearing from our speakers in a fireside chat there will be opportunities for discussions on the topic and time to network with those who are there. The format will be relaxed and informal with plenty of opportunity to connect\, share and learn. \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. \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\nCarWow\, 2nd floor\, 10 Bressenden Place\, SW1E 5DH \nOn arrival at CarWow’s offices\, please check in at the main reception\, collect a visitor pass and go through the access gates using the pass. You’ll then need to take the lift to the meeting space on the 2nd floor. Please note the office will not be open until 9am and the nearest tube stop and station is Victoria. \nAccessibility\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-london-july-2025/
LOCATION:CarWow\, 2nd Floor\, 10 Bressenden Place\, London\, SW1E 5DH\, 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:20250630T093000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20250630T163000
DTSTAMP:20260603T002055
CREATED:20250414T152322Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250618T112811Z
UID:173853-1751275800-1751301000@volunteermanagers.org.uk
SUMMARY:Craft Your Volunteer Strategy: A One-Day Workshop for Nonprofit Leaders
DESCRIPTION:Monday 30 June 2025 | 9.30am to 4.30pm | Birmingham\nTicket prices (including lunch):\nMembers Early Bird £69 | Non-members Early Bird £99\nMembers £89 | Non-members £109\nAre you responsible for developing your organisation’s volunteer strategy? \nThis workshop is specifically designed for volunteer managers in small to medium-sized organisations who need practical advice and expertise without high costs\, and is being led by volunteer engagement professionals Rob Jackson and Dan O’Driscoll.  \nThis is the only time this workshop will run in 2025\, so make sure you don’t miss out on the opportunity to gain a clear direction\, greater confidence\, and the tools you need to build a volunteer strategy that makes a real difference. \nAs well as a full day of interactive sessions\, you will also receive a pack of handouts and reference materials\, including three great examples of volunteering strategies. \nThis event will cover:\n\nUnderstanding the external context for volunteering\nAnalysing your organisation’s readiness via SWOT\nHow to set out the fundamentals of why volunteers are crucial to your cause\nPlanning next steps using a Start Stop Continue approach\nAction planning so people leave with tangible next steps actions.\n\nBy the end of the event\, you will leave with:\n\nProven frameworks to help you develop a volunteer strategy that aligns with your organisation’s mission\nPractical tools and templates that you can take back and apply straight away\nConfidence to lead future strategic volunteer engagement initiatives.\n\nAbout the speakers\nRob Jackson \n \nRob Jackson FRSA is Director of Rob Jackson Consulting Ltd\, a consultancy and training  company that helps engage and inspire people to bring about change.   \nRob has over 30 years experience working in the volunteering movement\, having held a  variety of strategic development and senior management roles that have focused on  leading and engaging volunteers.   \nRob has run his company since 2011 working with a wide range of clients in the UK\,  Australia\, New Zealand\, Europe\, the USA and Canada.   \nRob is co-author of The Complete Volunteer Management Handbook (DSC\, 2012 and  2019) and From The Top Down – UK Edition (Energize Inc.\, 2015).   \nRob is currently an elected Town Councillor for the Arnoldfield Ward in Grantham\, UK. \nDan O’Driscoll
URL:https://volunteermanagers.org.uk/event/craft-your-volunteer-strategy/
LOCATION:Library of Birmingham\, Centenary Square\, Broad Street\, Birmingham\, B1 2ND\, United Kingdom
CATEGORIES:Learning & Development
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://volunteermanagers.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/mapbox-iSYdI8padLM-unsplash-scaled.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20250624T093000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20250624T113000
DTSTAMP:20260603T002055
CREATED:20250402T151100Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250613T132611Z
UID:173605-1750757400-1750764600@volunteermanagers.org.uk
SUMMARY:AI in Practice: AI's Transformative Power in Volunteer Management
DESCRIPTION:Tuesday 24 June 2025 | 9.30am to 11.30am | Online via Zoom\nTicket prices: Members £43 | Non-Members £65\nDiscover how AI can help combat administrative overload\, increase volunteer recruitment and retention\, and support engagement and communication. \nExplore AI tools to support you\, your volunteers and your organisation\, and plan your next steps towards AI integration. \nLearn how other volunteering professionals are utilising AI in their services. \nArtificial Intelligence (AI) is rapidly changing how we work\, and the volunteer management sector is no exception. This comprehensive session explores the transformative influence of AI on volunteer management\, showcasing how it streamlines processes and ultimately amplifies the impact of volunteer programs. AI tools are becoming invaluable for volunteer managers\, offering capabilities that streamline operations\, boost volunteer engagement\, and improve the overall volunteer experience. \nIntroducing AI tools into the volunteer management process is a strategic step that can significantly improve efficiency\, engagement\, and volunteer satisfaction. For Volunteer Managers and Heads of Volunteering Services\, implementing AI tools involves careful planning\, training\, and ongoing evaluation to ensure the technology aligns with organisational goals and enhances volunteer services. \nAI can empower volunteer managers to focus on building strong relationships with volunteers and maximising their contribution to the organisation’s mission. The future of volunteer management lies in harnessing the power of AI. By embracing this technology and proactively addressing its challenges\, organisations can unlock new levels of efficiency\, engagement\, and impact in their volunteer programs. AI is not just a tool – it’s a catalyst for positive change in the third sector! \nWe are fortunate to have an expert in the field who has crafted a session specifically for AVM/ volunteering professionals to help us navigate our way towards AI integration. \nAbout the session\nThis session will demystify AI\, encouraging participants to start using it in their daily lives through practical examples. We’ll explore what AI is\, the power of large language models (LLMs)\, how to navigate the AI landscape\, and provide practical advice for going from zero to one with AI implementation. \nDive into the world of practical AI applications with this engaging session. You’ll discover how AI is transforming everyday work\, gain insights from real-world implementation examples\, and learn a strategic approach to adopting AI tools that deliver maximum impact with minimal effort. This session bridges the gap between AI theory and practical application. \nThe journey begins with an accessible introduction to AI fundamentals and today’s influential AI platforms. We’ll explore the most effective tools available for volunteering professionals right now and guide you through the essential mindset shift needed for AI integration. You’ll learn how to avoid common implementation pitfalls while adopting a practical 20/80 approach—achieving 80% of potential results with just 20% of the effort. \nWe’ll finish the session with a reflection and planning session using Action Learning Sets – to move from theory to implementation.  AVM has produced resources to accompany this event. \nYou will: \n\ngain practical knowledge of AI tools\ndevelop confidence in applying AI solutions\nunderstand the AI landscape\nlearn how to avoid common implementation mistakes\nadopt an efficient approach to AI integration\nlearn how your peers are utilising or developing the use of AI\nplan your next steps towards AI integration\n\nAbout the trainer\nDavid Homan has a unique background combining AI and philosophy. Not a developer by trade\, David successfully built an entire application on Android and iOS using AI and applies artificial intelligence in his day-to-day work. As a natural generalist\, he excels at combining multiple fields with AI serving as the connective glue. David is the Training and Community Lead at AI Heroes. \nAbout AI Heroes\nFounded in 2019\, AI Heroes is a vibrant team of innovators and industry experts dedicated to helping businesses turn AI into their unfair advantage. We believe that no business should miss out on the advantages that AI can offer. \nAI Heroes is centered around guiding you through every step of your AI journey – from identifying opportunities to helping you find and use the AI toolkit that fits your unique needs. We offer dynamic training sessions\, results-focused workshops\, and smart consultancy services. \nNext to enabling teams all over the world to use AI to their advantage\, we develop our in-house tool Baseline AI. Baseline takes care of all your repetitive customer interactions on any channel so your team can focus on the conversations that matter. Whether you’re a startup looking to make your mark or an established enterprise aiming to innovate\, our services ensure that your AI solutions are affordable and effective. Together\, we can turn your challenges into your competitive advantage. \n\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/ai-in-practice/
LOCATION:Online on Zoom
CATEGORIES:Learning & Development
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://volunteermanagers.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/AI-in-Action-Workshop-AI-Heroes.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20250612T093000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20250612T110000
DTSTAMP:20260603T002055
CREATED:20250217T162322Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250604T141314Z
UID:172790-1749720600-1749726000@volunteermanagers.org.uk
SUMMARY:Members' Forum: Working with Emotions in Volunteering (2) - Keeping Things in Perspective
DESCRIPTION:Thursday 12 June 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 separately. \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\nKeeping Things in Perspective\nLearning to cope with challenging emotions and difficult situations is vital in building your own emotional resilience. This session will introduce the concepts of emotional framing and emotional resonance. \nSometimes difficult situations can overshadow your life\, and can affect the way you see everything about your work. In this session\, we will focus on how gaining a sense of perspective can be really helpful in allowing you to cope with the emotional challenges you might face. \nLearning Objectives\n\nUnderstand the extent to which negative encounters can have disproportionate resonance in your view of your job\nRealise that the majority of your work life is positive and rewarding\nGain knowledge of framing techniques that can help you better cope with challenges\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. \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. \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
URL:https://volunteermanagers.org.uk/event/members-forum-working-with-emotions-in-volunteering-session-2/
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:20250521T093000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20250521T123000
DTSTAMP:20260603T002055
CREATED:20250217T125507Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250508T153601Z
UID:172767-1747819800-1747830600@volunteermanagers.org.uk
SUMMARY:Skills-based Volunteering
DESCRIPTION:Wednesday 21 May 2025 | 9.30am to 12.30pm | Online via Zoom\nTicket prices: Members £27 | Non-Members £43\nThe idea behind skills-based volunteering is simple: volunteers share their professional skills and experience to help support and develop voluntary organisations. \nSkills-based volunteers can transform your organisation in areas such as strategy\, law\, digital\, finance and marketing\, at the same time as offering meaningful and rewarding opportunities to businesses and individuals. \nThis event is relevant to you if you: \n\nWould like to find out more about skilled based volunteering – what it is and the benefits.\nAre responsible for the involvement of volunteers across your organisation and looking for new and innovative ways for people to participate.\nFacing an organisational challenge or skills gap (e.g.  in areas such as strategy\, law\, digital\, finance and marketing) and want to find out more about how skills-based volunteering can support.\nAre keen to think differently about how you involve corporate volunteers\, moving beyond team volunteering days and engaging with corporates to share their professional skills and experience.\n\nLearning objectives\n\nUnderstand the nature and value of skill-based volunteering for charities\, business and volunteers \nUnderstand the diversity of the skill-based volunteering sector and hear from key organisations leading in this space\nGenerate ideas on how skills-based volunteering can be applied in your organisation and next steps for getting involved\n\nAbout the Speakers\nEd Mayo\nEd Mayo is Chief Executive of Pilotlight\, a skilled volunteering charity that brings people from business and charities together to do more for their world. Pilotlight has helped over 1\,000 charities and social enterprises who tackle social disadvantage to ignite change that lasts and in 2024\, started a programme of pro bono support for environmental charities. \nEd has led the development of a diverse range of civil society organisations\, including Co-operatives UK\, the National Consumer Council and the New Economics Foundation. He’s a longtime business campaigner\, an author on values in business and a respected leader and innovator in the third sector. His current mission is to change the way that business leaders engage with civil society. \nHolly Meacham\nHolly is Head of Service and Operations at Reach Volunteering\, the leading skills-based volunteering charity and the UK’s single biggest source of trustees for the voluntary sector. She has been working in the third sector over 16 years\, with expertise spanning governance\, charity leadership\, operations management and service delivery and strategy. \nMuch of Holly’s career has been dedicated to supporting people to develop the skills and confidence to thrive. She believes strongly in the importance of volunteering\, not just for organisations who benefit\, but for its role in bringing people together to make positive societal change\, as well as the opportunities for personal development volunteering offers. \nAlice Clementi\nAlice is CEO of Charterpath\, a charity she co-founded in 2020 to inspire more finance professionals into volunteering. A PwC qualified chartered accountant\, Alice has had an 18 year career in financial services and held leadership roles at Close Brothers and the private bank C. Hoare & Co. Alongside her professional career Alice is a school governor\, trustee and mother of two young children.  \nRebecca Wilkinson\nAs Chief Executive of LawWorks\, Rebecca leads the team which supports and facilitates pro bono work by Solicitors across England & Wales. In her role\, Rebecca works closely with member firms and third sector organisations\, to drive forward LawWorks’ pro bono programmes\, helping to address unmet legal need within England & Wales. She is a member of the Administrative Justice Council and is on the Steering Committee for the Legal Advice Sector Roundtable. \nRebecca previously managed the Law Society’s pro bono and public legal education programmes as their Pro Bono and Public Legal Education Policy Adviser (2014-2018). On behalf of the Law Society she acted as the organiser for National Pro Bono Week\, sat on the Attorney General’s Domestic & International pro bono committees\, and coordinated the Society’s relationships with key stakeholders. Rebecca was called to the Bar in 2013. \nPrior to her involvement with the legal profession\, Rebecca spent many years working for Community Service Volunteers\, a large volunteering charity\, where she ran national projects and training events. She gained extensive experience in managing and inspiring people to give up their time on a voluntary basis to help others. \nKirsty McIntosh\nKirsty McIntosh is Head of Partnerships for the Scottish Tech Army and its UK initiative the Tech for Good Alliance\, and Chair of Trustees for Fife-based charity Seescape\, which supports people living with visual impairment. Prior to joining the Scottish Tech Army\, Kirsty worked in sectors as diverse as construction\, architecture and technology.  \nShe has a reputation for being an ‘ideas engine’\, capable of seeing things differently which she says stems from a never-ending curiosity about the world. She’s a natural communicator and relationship builder and is deeply committed to bringing the tech and third sectors closer together. \nThe Scottish Tech Army is a not for profit organisation that is harnessing the UK’s tech talent to support third sector organisations maximise their effectiveness. It has over 4\,000 registered volunteers and has supported nearly 500 charities since its inception at the height of the pandemic. \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/skills-based-volunteering/
LOCATION:Online on Zoom
CATEGORIES:Learning & Development
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://volunteermanagers.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/christina-wocintechchat-com-50TkCaP8M3A-unsplash-scaled.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20250514T130000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20250514T140000
DTSTAMP:20260603T002055
CREATED:20250217T155540Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250514T101535Z
UID:172785-1747227600-1747231200@volunteermanagers.org.uk
SUMMARY:Mental Health Awareness Week event - Mindfulness and Meditation Hour
DESCRIPTION:Wednesday 14 May 2025 | 1pm to 2pm | Online via Zoom\nFree for AVM Members\nCome along to this complementary session to mark Mental Health Awareness Week – it’s a practical session to support the health and wellbeing of volunteer managers by exploring ways to reduce stress and tension held in the mind and body. \nYou’ll learn a simple self hypnosis technique\, stretches to reduce shoulder and neck tension\, Mindfulness techniques including body scanning and breathing techniques and we’ll finish with a 20 minute meditation. \nTreat yourself to an hours relaxation session with a qualified and experienced Qigong\, mindfulness and meditation teacher. \nSession outline\n1pm Self hypnosis technique – useful for preparing for stressful or challenging situations \n1.10pm Simple stretches – useful to release neck and shoulder tension \n1.20pm Breath work and Body scanning – simple breathing techniques and a Mindfulness technique to calm the mind and body \n1.35pm Meditation – Qigong Cun Si meditation – using an ancient healing visualisation meditation to centre and ground yourself \nAbout the facilitator\nVicky Peake is the Member Engagement and Events Officer at AVM. Vicky has over 30 years experience in the third sector with diverse communities and beneficiary groups. Her experience includes: growing high quality services in partnership with volunteers; fundraising and providing fundraising coaching\, advice\, support and training; and as a trainer and educator. Vicky is also an experienced and qualified Qigong/Chi Kung teacher and has enjoyed teaching Qigong\, mindfulness and meditation in a range of settings since 2004. \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/mental-health-awareness-week-event-mindfulness-and-meditation-hour/
LOCATION:Online on Zoom
CATEGORIES:Member-only event
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://volunteermanagers.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/alejandro-pinero-amerio-KBn4-lyqRgQ-unsplash-scaled.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20250508T123000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20250508T153000
DTSTAMP:20260603T002055
CREATED:20250219T115826Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250312T154417Z
UID:172858-1746707400-1746718200@volunteermanagers.org.uk
SUMMARY:Peer Support Networking Meeting: South East England
DESCRIPTION:Thursday 8 May 2025 | 12.30pm to 3.30pm | Surrey\nTickets: Free\nThe next meeting of the South East England Peer Support Networking Group will be focusing on the theme of measuring the impact of volunteering. \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\nRHS Garden Wisley\, Woking\, Surrey\, GU23 6QB. \nThere are car parks at the venue. Please arrive a few minutes early at the garden reception and the volunteering team in Purple tops will guide you to the room.
URL:https://volunteermanagers.org.uk/event/peer-support-networking-meeting-south-east-england-may-2025/
LOCATION:RHS Garden Wisley\, RHS Garden Wisley\, Woking\, Surrey\, GU23 6QB\, 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:20250508T103000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20250508T123000
DTSTAMP:20260603T002055
CREATED:20250317T143335Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250430T093711Z
UID:173374-1746700200-1746707400@volunteermanagers.org.uk
SUMMARY:Peer Support Networking Meeting: West Midlands
DESCRIPTION:Thursday 8 May 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\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-may-2025/
LOCATION:Virgin Money Lounge (Birmingham)\, 136-138 New Street\, Birmingham\, Birmingham\, B2 4NS\, 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:20250507T100000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20250507T110000
DTSTAMP:20260603T002055
CREATED:20250217T120218Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250501T135642Z
UID:172762-1746612000-1746615600@volunteermanagers.org.uk
SUMMARY:Reframing and Managing Stress as a Volunteer Leader
DESCRIPTION:Wednesday 7 May | 10am to 11.30am | Online via Zoom\nTicket prices: Members £27 | Non-members £43\nStress is a natural response to life and work.  Stress can be motivating as well as overwhelming.  Learning effective approaches and strategies will help you\, your teams and your organisation. \nThis session will explore practical ways to reduce and manage stress\, as well as changing the way we think about it. When stress is unavoidable\, or outside of your control\, trick your brain into seeing this as a positive experience and allow your adrenaline to drive you to success. \nUnderstand the impact of stress on ourselves\, our colleagues\, employees and volunteers and discover how to manage it effectively. \nCourse Highlights\nThis event will cover: \n\nUnderstanding what stress is and what function it serves\nReflection on how stress impacts you uniquely\nReflect on common stressors related to your work as a volunteer manager\nIntroduction to (and skills practice of) stress management strategies and when to use them as a volunteer manager:\n\n\n\nbreathing techniques \nmindfulness\nreframing (including reframing stress itself)\n\n\n\n\nResources to encourage self-reflection and develop an action plan\n\nFollowing the presentation there will time to ask the expert and then group activities to reflect on the session\, practice techniques and plan our next steps. \nAbout the trainer\nHayley Broughton-McKinna is a qualified Associate Psychological Practitioner with over 10 years of professional experience in mental health\, working across all stages of life. Having held roles within the NHS\, the criminal justice system\, and both non-profit and private sectors\, Hayley brings a wealth of expertise and a unique perspective. She uncovers the “why” behind mental health conditions while equipping employees and business leaders with practical strategies and tools to stay resilient and perform at their best. \nAbout the training provider \nPMAC is a leading provider of workplace mental health and wellbeing training. They believe that employees in all industries are entitled to training that will give them the tools they need to manage their own health and wellbeing\, and allow them to be the best\, most productive version of themselves.  \nPMAC incorporates years of experience\, extensive psychological know-how and mental health knowledge\, with engaging activities during our training sessions\, to ensure all staff get the most out of their time with us. PMAC endeavour to ensure that the knowledge and skills that you take away with you will not only be applicable to the workplace\, but will be transferrable.  \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/managing-stress/
LOCATION:Online on Zoom
CATEGORIES:Learning & Development
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://volunteermanagers.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/Mis5fyJi7Q0-unsplash-scaled.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20250506T103000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20250506T123000
DTSTAMP:20260603T002055
CREATED:20250305T124630Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250422T152148Z
UID:173164-1746527400-1746534600@volunteermanagers.org.uk
SUMMARY:Peer Support Networking Meeting: Scotland
DESCRIPTION:Tuesday 6 May 2025 | 10.30am to 12.30pm | Edinburgh\nTickets: Free\nThe next meeting of the Scotland Peer Support Networking Group will be in Edinburgh\, and 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. \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\nKaren Filsell \nVenue\nRoom 7\, Virgin Money\, 83 George Street\, Edinburgh\, EH2 3ES \n(Please note the change of venue for this event) \nAccessibility\nFlat access with shallow\, slight slope up into the building. The room has a hearing loop.
URL:https://volunteermanagers.org.uk/event/peer-support-networking-meeting-scotland-may-2025/
LOCATION:Virgin Money Lounge (Edinburgh)\, 83 George Street\, Edinburgh\, EH2 3ES\, 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:20250428T090000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20250428T104500
DTSTAMP:20260603T002055
CREATED:20250319T115547Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20251118T150807Z
UID:173461-1745830800-1745837100@volunteermanagers.org.uk
SUMMARY:Peer Support Peer Support Networking Meeting: London
DESCRIPTION:Monday 28 April 2025 | 9am to 10.45am | London\nTickets: Free\nFollowing feedback from those who attended our first meeting in January\, we’ll be running our second London face to face networking event on the topic of New ideas and innovations at each stage of the volunteering journey. \nThis roundtable is a chance to share and hear from colleagues on some of the latest developments in the sector\, sharing practical tools and resources helping us deliver our role. The second part of the session will be speed networking. \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. \nThere will be an agenda for the meeting\, but the format will be relaxed and informal with plenty of opportunity to connect\, share and learn. \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\nGirlguiding\, 17-19 Buckingham Palace Road\, London\, SW1W 0PT \nOn arrival at Girlguiding’s offices\, please check in with reception who will direct you to the meeting room. Please note the office will not be open until 9am and the nearest tube stop and station is Victoria. \nAccessibility\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-peer-support-networking-meeting-london-april-2025/
LOCATION:Girlguiding Office (London)\, 17-19 Buckingham Palace Road\, London\, SW1W 0PT\, United Kingdom
CATEGORIES:Networking
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END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20250424T093000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20250424T113000
DTSTAMP:20260603T002055
CREATED:20241211T161256Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250225T125643Z
UID:171543-1745487000-1745494200@volunteermanagers.org.uk
SUMMARY:Building Confidence in Conflict Management Training
DESCRIPTION:Thursday 24 April 2025 | 9.30am to 11.30am | Online via Zoom\nTicket prices: Members £43 & Non-Members £65\nConflict is an inevitable part of working with people\, especially in volunteer-involving organisations where diverse backgrounds\, experiences\, and challenges converge.  \nThis two-hour session will equip you with the knowledge and tools to better understand where conflict comes from\, recognise the warning signs and respond effectively to manage and de-escalate difficult situations – thereby helping to create safer and more positive environments for everyone. \nThis event will cover:\n\nUnderstanding common factors behind confrontational behaviour\nRecognising the five stages of conflict escalation\nIdentifying conflict warning signs in ourselves and others\nExploring strategies to prevent conflict escalation and address unacceptable behaviour\nAppreciating the importance of reporting conflict and how to do so effectively\n\nAgenda\nIntroduction  \n\nDefine “conflict”  \nExplore its relevance in volunteer-involving organisations  \n\nUnderstanding Conflict  \n\nDiscuss reasons for confrontational behaviour\nLearn the five stages of conflict escalation\nIdentify verbal\, physical\, and psychological signs of conflict\n\nManaging Conflict  \n\nExplore calming strategies\, such as managing body language\, asking questions\, and using the element of surprise\nEngage in activities to practise and apply techniques\n\nReporting Conflict   \n\nUnderstand why it is important to report conflict\nLearn how to document incidents appropriately\n\nAbout the speaker\nNicola Lake has extensive experience both working and volunteering in the non-profit sector\, leading on volunteer management and developing training initiatives at a variety of organisations. Nicola is currently a Vision for Volunteering Champion and offers a wide range of practical resources and bespoke consultation services via her own company\, ResourceVol. Specialising in volunteer recruitment\, training\, resource design\, and process optimisation\, Nicola is dedicated to empowering volunteers and helping non-profits achieve their aims. \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-confidence-in-conflict-management/
LOCATION:Online on Zoom
CATEGORIES:Learning & Development
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://volunteermanagers.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/headway-5QgIuuBxKwM-unsplash-scaled.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20250403T093000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20250403T110000
DTSTAMP:20260603T002055
CREATED:20241126T123859Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250425T124618Z
UID:170887-1743672600-1743678000@volunteermanagers.org.uk
SUMMARY:Members’ Forum: Working with Emotions in Volunteering Toolkit (1) - Mapping Your Emotional Landscape
DESCRIPTION:Thursday 3 April 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 separately. \nThe Series\nSession 1 – Mapping Your Emotional Landscape (3 April 2025)\nSession 2 – Keeping Things in Perspective (12 June 2025)\nSession 3 – Having Courageous Conversation (11 September 2025)\nSession 4 – Performing Emotions Effectively (6 November 2025) \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\nMapping Your Emotional Landscape\nThe way you feel\, perceive and behave is unique to you. What we call your emotional landscape will determine how you react in different situations at different times.  \nThis session will be focused on helping you to map and understand your own emotional landscape and why this is important for your job as a manager of volunteers. \nThis event will cover:\n\nMaking sense of why you feel and react the way you do in different situations\nImproving the way that you prepare for different interactions and cope with challenging conversations.\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. \nResearch 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. \nAreas 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. Many thanks.
URL:https://volunteermanagers.org.uk/event/working-with-emotions-in-volunteering-session-1/
LOCATION:Online on Zoom
CATEGORIES:Member-only event
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END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20250401T133000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20250401T154000
DTSTAMP:20260603T002055
CREATED:20250219T124856Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250219T124933Z
UID:172864-1743514200-1743522000@volunteermanagers.org.uk
SUMMARY:Peer Support Networking Meeting: North West England
DESCRIPTION:Tuesday 1 April 2025 | 1.30pm to 3.40pm | Manchester\nTickets: Free\nThe next meeting of the North West England Peer Support Networking Group provides 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\nVirgin Money lounge\, Manchester Store\, 48-50 Market Street\, Manchester\, M1 1PW \nThe venue is a 10-15 minute walk from all three Manchester stations. The closest parking is at NCP Manchester Piccadilly Plaza\, City Tower\, New York St\, Manchester M1 4AJ. \nAccessibility\nThe meeting room is in the basement\, and there is a lift in the building.
URL:https://volunteermanagers.org.uk/event/peer-support-networking-meeting-north-west-england-april-2025/
LOCATION:Virgin Money Lounge (Manchester)\, 48-50 Market Street\, Manchester\, M1 1PW\, 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:20250326T093000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20250326T123000
DTSTAMP:20260603T002055
CREATED:20250127T143933Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250212T163031Z
UID:172466-1742981400-1742992200@volunteermanagers.org.uk
SUMMARY:Recognising & Rewarding Volunteers
DESCRIPTION:Wednesday 26 March 2025 | 9.30am to 12.30pm | Online via Zoom\nTicket prices: Members £27 | Non-members £43 \nWhether raising funds\, cheering at events or working directly with your beneficiaries\, volunteers play a critical part in a charity’s success\, so recognising them appropriately is fundamental to the volunteers’ experience and your overall retention strategy. \nAt this event\, we will be joined by three speakers who will all provide insights into various aspects of recognising and rewarding volunteers. \nVictoria Dickenson\, a charity consultant\, will give an overview of the importance of volunteer recruitment and how it starts from the moment they are recruited. Victoria will draw on her extensive knowledge of the voluntary sector and also incorporate some recent findings from sector research on current trends.   \nJoe Langtree will speak about the Room to Reward awards programme. Room to Reward is a fantastic concept where hotels all around the country donate unsold rooms so that volunteers nominated by their charity can benefit from a two night hotel stay. There is no cost to the charity and Joe will explain this simple but rewarding scheme.   \nLeah Parolin from MacMillan Cancer Support will talk about how MacMillan co-created their MacMillan Moments ongoing recognition scheme with the input and feedback directly from volunteers. From survey feedback the charity realised there was a gap in their recognition programme which needed to fit a diverse range of volunteers and that recognised those volunteers who need a special thank you throughout the year. This concept was low cost and easily adaptable to any organisation. Leah will also speak about some of the charity’s other methods of recognition.  \nThis event will cover:\n\n A strategic overview of the importance of recognition based on recent research\n Ideas on successful recognition with little or no budget\n How to make existing volunteers feel valued and appreciated\, encouraging them to stay involved and spread the word\n How to involve volunteers in the design of your recognition programme to ensure it recognises the diversity of your volunteers and is meaningful to them.\n\nAbout the Speakers\nVictoria Dickinson –  Consultant\nVictoria Dickinson is an independent consultant (VA Consultancy) bringing over 30 years of expertise in volunteer management. She specialises in collaborating with organisations to design and implement volunteering programmes that foster lasting\, positive change. Victoria has recently partnered with organisations such as the Commonwealth War Graves Commission\, the English-Speaking Union\, the Touch Trust\, and Advocacy People\, delivering impactful solutions tailored to their needs. As an experienced trainer\, she conducts high-quality workshops covering all aspects of volunteering\, equipping individuals and teams with the knowledge and skills needed for success. In addition to her own consultancy work\, Victoria is a NCVO Associate Consultant and a consultant with HRAtkinson. She contributes her time and expertise as a Trustee at Community People and volunteers to support young children’s education.  \nJoe Langtree – Room to Reward \nJoe Langtree joined Room to Reward in October 2018 and became Operations Director in early 2020. Room to Reward uses donated unsold rooms from over 900 hotels across the UK to give nominated volunteers the chance to enjoy a well-earned break. So far\, R2R partners have donated over 3000 breaks to volunteers nominated by over 1000 organisations. R2R breaks are for 2 nights\, 2 people\, on a bed & breakfast basis and at no cost. \nLeah Parolin – MacMillan Cancer Support\nLeah Parolin is a Volunteering Support Officer at Macmillan Cancer Support\, working for the past 4 years as part of a team whose remit is to improve the overall volunteer experience. Her work has a particular focus on delivering and developing Volunteer Reward and Recognition initiatives that thank and motivate those who give their time in an inclusive\, sustainable way. \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/recognising-rewarding-volunteers/
LOCATION:Online on Zoom
CATEGORIES:Learning & Development
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://volunteermanagers.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/alexas_fotos-pnGjbJEmU3o-unsplash-scaled.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20250319T130000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20250319T143000
DTSTAMP:20260603T002055
CREATED:20250108T160242Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250108T160600Z
UID:172053-1742389200-1742394600@volunteermanagers.org.uk
SUMMARY:Members’ Forum: Developing Volunteer Peer Learning Opportunities
DESCRIPTION:Wednesday 19 March 2025 | 1pm to 2.30pm | Online via Zoom\nFree for AVM Members\nWould you like to introduce or develop peer learning opportunities for your volunteers? \nDo you want to learn how others bring volunteers together online and in person? \nPeer learning in volunteer training and support can be a really powerful way to enable volunteers to support one another\, build your volunteer community and give further development opportunities to your volunteers. It can also be a great way to diversify training sessions and maintain engagement.  \nThis session will explore volunteer peer learning\, provide practical examples of its introduction to organisations and\, through action learning sets\, increase your understanding of how you can introduce or develop volunteer peer learning opportunities. \nThis event will cover:\n\nWhat peer learning in volunteer training and support is\nWhat it looks like\nThe pros and cons of volunteer peer learning\nIdentifying places in your own volunteer processes where you might embed peer learning opportunities\n\nAgenda\nThe session will include a short introduction to volunteer peer learning and some practical examples of it being introduced into volunteering organisations\, before moving over to breakout groups where you will be able to explore what peer learning could look like in your own volunteering programmes.  \nThe breakout groups will utilise the Action Learning model of learning\, where you can present your challenges or thoughts on a topic and receive feedback and ideas from the rest of the group. \nAbout the speaker\nBradley Allsop – Peer Learning \nBradley Allsop is an AVM member and currently works as the Student Engagement Officer at the Institute of Physics\, where he supports a range of engaged students in different roles. Bradley also serves as a volunteer in a number of organisations\, including Suffolk Libraries\, where he serves as a trustee. \nThroughout his time volunteering and supporting volunteers\, Bradley has learnt that often the most powerful and impactful forms of training and development for volunteers can be when they are given chances to learn from each other\, and is excited to share his experiences in this area of volunteer support with other AVM members. \nAbout the Members’ Forums\nAt the Members’ Forums\, for part of the session\, we will be working 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 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 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. \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. Many thanks.
URL:https://volunteermanagers.org.uk/event/developing-volunteer-peer-learning-opportunities/
LOCATION:Online on Zoom
CATEGORIES:Member-only event
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://volunteermanagers.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/jason-goodman-Ti7LQ0r-zy4-unsplash-scaled.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20250305T093000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20250305T110000
DTSTAMP:20260603T002055
CREATED:20241211T152833Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250227T161307Z
UID:171540-1741167000-1741172400@volunteermanagers.org.uk
SUMMARY:Members’ Free Think-in: Volunteers’ Week 2025 Planning
DESCRIPTION:Wednesday 5 March 2025 | 9.30am to 11am | Online via Zoom\nTicket prices: Free for AVM Members\nDo you want some inspiration for your Volunteers’ Week celebrations?   \nDo you have some great examples of activities and approaches you can share? \nWhatever stage of planning you are at\, join us for this facilitated conversation with other volunteer managers to share ideas\, be inspired and try new approaches. Come along to think through and plan your unique Volunteers’ Week celebrations. \nThere will be whole group activities and smaller group discussions and conversations\, plus individual time to reflect and plan. We’ll use interactive tools to capture ideas and keep the sessions interesting and engaging. \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. \nThink-in’s are friendly\, informal events bursting with tips\, tricks and takeaways. Connect with other volunteer managers\, make links\, share approaches and insights\, celebrate successes\, and learn how others overcame obstacles and challenges. \nFuture Think-in themes and topics will be inspired by previous AVM events\, and relate to opportunities and challenges in volunteer management\, 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. \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 event is fully booked\nThis event is now fully booked. If you would like to be added to a waiting list in case a ticket becomes available\, please add your details to our waiting list form\, and we will get in contact if one becomes available.
URL:https://volunteermanagers.org.uk/event/volunteers-week-planning-2025/
LOCATION:Online on Zoom
CATEGORIES:Member-only event
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://volunteermanagers.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2021/06/marten-newhall-uAFjFsMS3YY-unsplash-scaled.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20250213T093000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20250213T110000
DTSTAMP:20260603T002055
CREATED:20241126T104526Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250115T121038Z
UID:170858-1739439000-1739444400@volunteermanagers.org.uk
SUMMARY:Members’ Forum: Beyond Numbers and Hours - lessons from a project exploring the full value and costs of volunteering
DESCRIPTION:Thursday 13 February 2025 | 9.30am to 11am | Online via Zoom\nFree for AVM Members\nWorking with external researchers\, Citizens Advice have recently completed their most extensive research into volunteering for over a decade. \nOutputs from this include two calculators to enable local teams to assess the value and costs of volunteering and a toolkit to support local offices to review and plan for the most appropriate volunteering operating model for their context. \nIn this session\, Citizens Advice will share the resources that have been developed and reflect on the challenges and opportunities of carrying out work of this type\, including working with external research and consultancy teams and seeking to influence change in a federated structure. \nCitizens Advice will particularly focus on learning about the importance of considering a wider value of volunteering i.e. beyond simply counting volunteer numbers and hours. We’ll also consider what learnings there could be for the sector as a whole. \nThis event will cover:\n\nInsights into the journey to change the narrative for measuring the value of volunteering\nWorking with an external research team\nInfluencing and starting to spark change in a federated structure\nIdeas for how we can work together as a sector to change the narrative around the value of volunteering\n\nAgenda\n9.30 – 9.50am \n\nIntroducing the resources\nWhy Citizens Advice commissioned the Value of Volunteering research\nThe Value Calculator\nThe Toolkit (including the Cost Calculator)\n\n10 – 10.20am \n\nThe challenges\nWorking together\nInfluencing in a federated structure\n\n10.20 – 10.50am \n\nInfluencing externally\nUsing the learnings across the sector\n\n10.50 – 11am \n\nReflections\n\nAbout the speakers\nBeth Wynn – Volunteering Transformation Manager at Citizens Advice\nSince starting as a volunteer adviser in a local Citizens Advice office\, Beth has worked in volunteer management for nearly 10 years and is currently the Volunteering Transformation Manager at Citizens Advice. Beth leads projects to support the Citizens Advice service to transform their volunteering offer in order to meet current and future challenges. \nShe is passionate about data-led approaches to volunteer management and improvement and promoting the huge value and transformative power of volunteering\, including the impact it can have on individual lives as well as broader society. Beth has previously worked with the Joseph Rowntree Foundation on anti-poverty strategy programmes and participatory action research into loneliness in communities. \nJennie Smith – Head of volunteering at Citizens Advice \nAs Head of Volunteering\, Jennie leads work to maximise the contribution volunteering can make to the Citizens Advice service. Since joining the organisation in 2021\, she has set-up and secured investment in a programme of transformation for volunteering of which the Value of Volunteering research is a fundamental part.  \nShe has previously held roles at the Greater London Authority\, developing and delivering the Mayor’s volunteering programme for London\, in youth volunteering at Voluntary Services Overseas\, leading the volunteering programmes at the homelessness charity Crisis\, and at The Challenge. \nAs a volunteer\, Jennie is a longstanding trustee of Brighter Futures Zambia\, a small international education charity where she leads on their fundraising and donor engagement. \nDr Helen Timbrell – People & Organisational Development Consultant\, Researcher and Coach \nHelen works as a Consultant\, Researcher and Coach supporting individuals and organisations to develop successful volunteer and employee experiences\, and to work through change. Past clients include Guide Dogs\, Stroke Association\, RVS\, Scouts and SSAFA.  \nHelen previously held the roles of Director of People and Organisational Development at Samaritans and Versus Arthritis. Prior to this she was Director of Volunteering and Participation at the National Trust\, where she appointed the organisation’s first Head of Diversity and Inclusion. Helen’s PhD explored geographical variations in volunteering. She has an MBA\, is a chartered member of the CIPD and holds an MSc in Coaching and Behavioural Change. \nAs a volunteer Helen has been a parkrun Event Director\, a member of the HR Advisory Committee for Amnesty International UK and a Director of the Association of Volunteer Managers. She is currently a Trustee for Dogs for Good and Abortion Talk\, and volunteers for The Conservation Volunteers (TCV) and in her local National Trust shop. \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 event is fully booked\nThis event is now fully booked. If you would like to be added to a waiting list in case a ticket becomes available\, please add your details to our waiting list form\, and we will get in contact if one becomes available.
URL:https://volunteermanagers.org.uk/event/beyond-numbers-and-hours/
LOCATION:Online on Zoom
CATEGORIES:Member-only event
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://volunteermanagers.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/the-jopwell-collection-ok-NPMRCcHg-unsplash.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20250206T093000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20250206T123000
DTSTAMP:20260603T002055
CREATED:20241125T152557Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250109T163239Z
UID:170814-1738834200-1738845000@volunteermanagers.org.uk
SUMMARY:Masterclass: How to Develop Your Volunteer Strategy
DESCRIPTION:Thursday 6 February 2025 | 9.30am – 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\, or if you’re due a strategy refresh 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 30 organisations with their strategic volunteering including Dogs Trust\, Blood Cancer UK\, RABI\, The Marine Conservation Society\, The Churches Conservation Trust\, The Solicitors’ Charity\, The Peak District National Park Authority and the MS Society.  \nLaura is an Associate Consultant with NCVO\, Consultants for Good and the Association of Chairs. She volunteers as Strategic Lead for Volunteering with Yorkshire Netball\, and as a trustee of Bramley Elderly Action and Older Wiser Local Seniors. \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-develop-your-volunteer-strategy-2025/
LOCATION:Online on Zoom
CATEGORIES:Learning & Development
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://volunteermanagers.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/ian-schneider-TamMbr4okv4-unsplash-scaled.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20250130T100000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20250130T120000
DTSTAMP:20260603T002055
CREATED:20241223T144734Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250108T170515Z
UID:171819-1738231200-1738238400@volunteermanagers.org.uk
SUMMARY:Peer Support Networking Meeting: North West England
DESCRIPTION:Thursday 30 January 2025 | 10am to 12pm | Manchester\nTickets: Free\nThe next meeting of the North West England Peer Support Networking Group is an opportunity for anyone working in volunteer management to connect with other volunteer managers\, share best practices and collaborate with each other. \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\nVirgin Money lounge\, Manchester Store\, 48-50 Market Street\, Manchester\, M1 1PW \nThe venue is a 10-15 minute walk from all three Manchester stations. The closest parking is at NCP Manchester Piccadilly Plaza\, City Tower\, New York St\, Manchester M1 4AJ. \nAccessibility\nThe meeting room is in the basement\, and there is a lift in the building.
URL:https://volunteermanagers.org.uk/event/peer-support-networking-meeting-north-west-england-jan-2025/
LOCATION:Virgin Money Lounge (Manchester)\, 48-50 Market Street\, Manchester\, M1 1PW\, 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:20250129T133000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20250129T154500
DTSTAMP:20260603T002055
CREATED:20241223T142836Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20241223T143335Z
UID:171814-1738157400-1738165500@volunteermanagers.org.uk
SUMMARY:Peer Support Network Meeting: South East England
DESCRIPTION:Wednesday 29 January 2025 | 1.30pm to 3.45pm | Surrey\nTickets: Free\nThe first meeting of the South East England 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. \nMembers’ aims for this network and future events will be discussed at this meeting. Please arrive just before 1.30pm. \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\nChris Wade \nVenue\nRHS Garden Wisley\, Woking\, Surrey\, GU23 6QB \nThere are car parks at the venue. Please arrive a few minutes early at the garden reception and the volunteering team in Purple tops will guide you to the room. \nBook your place\nIf you would like to attend\, please email Chris Wade.
URL:https://volunteermanagers.org.uk/event/peer-support-network-meeting-south-east-england/
LOCATION:RHS Garden Wisley\, RHS Garden Wisley\, Woking\, Surrey\, GU23 6QB\, 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:20250123T093000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20250123T123000
DTSTAMP:20260603T002055
CREATED:20241127T115721Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250109T120248Z
UID:170928-1737624600-1737635400@volunteermanagers.org.uk
SUMMARY:L&D Event: Attract\, Engage and Retain Volunteers Through Powerful Communication
DESCRIPTION:Thursday 23 January 2025 | 9.30am to 12.30pm | Online via Zoom\nTicket prices: Members £27 | Non-members £43\nEffective communication is key to attracting\, engaging\, and retaining volunteers. \nThis event will empower you to: \n\nCraft compelling messages and learn how to create a positive brand awareness and stand out on social media\, in the press\, and through emails\nDevelop techniques to ensure existing volunteers feel valued\, appreciated\, involved and encouraged to spread the word\nGain confidence in storytelling through online and offline methods to connect with existing volunteers\, restore their enthusiasm\, and motivate them to stay engaged\nLearn how to use Canva in an interactive workshop to produce digital and printed materials\nDesign eye-catching diverse posters and online graphics to capture the attention of your target audience and recruit new volunteers\n\nAbout the presentation\nImpactful Storytelling\nThis session will explore how Chest Heart and Stroke Scotland (CHSS) embed storytelling in attracting\, engaging\, and retaining volunteers.  Robyn will look at the different methods used to create compelling content for social media\, in the press\, and through emails and draw on examples of collaborative work to increase the chain of support for CHHS.  \nIt will include: \n\nExamples of three volunteer stories with reference to sourcing\, storytelling and sharing\nSourcing process and how to empower Volunteer Managers and colleagues to spot stories\nThe importance of storytelling including ethical storytelling and building a narrative\nTips for sharing stories through local media\, social media and internally\n\nRobyn Donoghue\, Content and Digital Marketing Officer at CHSS\, works across the organisation to create content and share stories of people with chest\, heart\, stroke conditions and long covid. The organisation works to help people live life to the full.  Through digital marketing the team aims to reach more people with our conditions\, raise vital income to fund services and support new relationships for supporters and volunteers.  Robyn has previously worked with Dundee Volunteer and Voluntary Action\, and other third sector organisations\, supporting charities and community groups by connecting opportunities and distributing grant funding.   \nAbout the workshop\nCreate with Canva \nThis interactive workshop will dive into how to use this web-based design tool to enhance your volunteer recruitment and retention.   \nLearn how to successfully use Canva to attract new volunteers and retain existing ones.  The workshop consists of two 45 minute sessions.  Katy will show participants how to use Canva to create digital assets and materials for offline use such as posters and volunteer handbooks.  There will be a break before the second session where participants will have the opportunity to create a digital and print-ready asset to support recognition of current volunteers by the end of the session. \nCanva is a great\, free tool that enables you to create professional-looking media such as posters\, event flyers\, slide shows\, cards\, certificates and social media images.  Canva is designed to be accessible for users of all levels\, from beginners to experienced designers – this workshop will enable you to gain confidence in its use and you will learn how to create engaging and eye-catching materials to enhance engagement with your current and future volunteers. \nKaty Penman\, Trainer\, Facilitator and Investing in Volunteers Assessor\, has 25 years of experience working in standard-setting and quality improvement across a range of settings and is an Investing in Volunteers (IIV) Assessor with Volunteer Scotland.  In addition to this role\, Katy is a freelance trainer working with others in the Third Sector to embed high quality and improvement methodology across all aspects of their work\, with a focus on volunteering and public engagement.  She also works on a part time basis for Link Living\, a trauma-informed Scottish health and wellbeing charity\, where she is responsible for the design and delivery of leadership and trauma-skilled practice training and qualifications. \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/attract-engage-retain-volunteers/
LOCATION:Online on Zoom
CATEGORIES:Learning & Development
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://volunteermanagers.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Speech-Bubble.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20250122T090000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20250122T104500
DTSTAMP:20260603T002055
CREATED:20241209T164410Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20241209T164435Z
UID:171486-1737536400-1737542700@volunteermanagers.org.uk
SUMMARY:Peer Support Networking Meeting: London
DESCRIPTION:Wednesday 22 January 2025 | 9am to 10.45am | London\nTickets: Free\nThe first meeting of the London Peer Support Networking Group is an opportunity to hear from Claire Bonham\, CEO of Sculpt on how she made the leap from Strategic Volunteering Lead at the Salvation Army to CEO of Sculpt\, a charity empowering young people based in Southwark. \nThe aim is for these meetings to be as useful as possible to everyone\, so we will work with all attendees to put together an agenda that covers topics you are interested in going forward. \nEveryone is welcome\, although booking is essential as places are limited by the venue capacity. \nThere will be an agenda for the meetings\, but the format will be relaxed and informal with plenty of opportunity to connect\, share and learn. \nPlease come along willing to share and participate to help get the most out of the meeting. Please arrive at 9am for a 9.15am start. \nThe aim is to run the meetings quarterly. \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\nSusannah Hodge and Jess Young \nVenue\nThe PPL Hub at St. Saviour’s Wharf\, 23 Mill Street\, London\, SE1 2BE – Access 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.
URL:https://volunteermanagers.org.uk/event/peer-support-networking-meeting-london/
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:20250121T110000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20250121T130000
DTSTAMP:20260603T002055
CREATED:20241030T120144Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20241113T094346Z
UID:170122-1737457200-1737464400@volunteermanagers.org.uk
SUMMARY:Peer Support Networking Meeting: East Midlands
DESCRIPTION:Tuesday 21 January 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 each other. \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\nNottingham Trent University\, Nottingham City Centre \nBook your place\nIf you would like to attend\, please email Rob Jackson.
URL:https://volunteermanagers.org.uk/event/east-midlands-peer-support-networking-meeting-january-2025/
LOCATION:Nottingham Trent University\, Nottingham\, 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:20250121T103000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20250121T123000
DTSTAMP:20260603T002055
CREATED:20241223T130533Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250120T113059Z
UID:171809-1737455400-1737462600@volunteermanagers.org.uk
SUMMARY:Peer Support Networking Meeting: Scotland
DESCRIPTION:*Please note new address details* \nThe meeting will now be held at: Sustrans Scotland\, 5/4 Ingram House\, 227 Ingram Street\, Glasgow G1 1DA \nTuesday 21 January 2025 | 10.30am to 12.30pm | Glasgow\nTickets: Free\nThe first meeting of the Scotland 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 each other. \nEveryone is welcome\, although booking is essential as places are limited by the venue capacity. \nThe format and frequency of meetings will be discussed at this first meeting. \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\nClaire Burrell \nVenue\n*Please note new address details* \nSustrans Scotland\, 5/4 Ingram House\, 227 Ingram Street\, Glasgow G1 1DA \nAccessibility\nArgyll Chambers is reached through Argyll Arcade; staircase and lift on the left as you enter the Arcade from Buchanan Street
URL:https://volunteermanagers.org.uk/event/peer-support-networking-meeting-scotland/
LOCATION:34 Argyll Chambers\, Buchanan Street\, Glasgow G2 8BD\, 34 Argyll Chambers\, Buchanan Street\, Glasgow\, G2 8BD\, 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:20250116T103000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20250116T123000
DTSTAMP:20260603T002055
CREATED:20241112T120705Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20241119T084605Z
UID:170375-1737023400-1737030600@volunteermanagers.org.uk
SUMMARY:Peer Support Networking Meeting: West Midlands
DESCRIPTION:Thursday 16 January 2025 | 10.30am to 12.30pm | Birmingham\nTickets: Free\nThe first meeting of the West 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 each other. \nEveryone is welcome\, although booking is essential as places are limited by the venue capacity. \nThere will be an agenda for the meetings\, but the format will be relaxed and informal.  \nThe aim is for these meetings to be as useful as possible to everyone\, so the organiser will work with all attendees to put together an agenda that covers topics you are interested in.  \nPlease come along willing to share and participate to help get the most out of the meeting. \nThe aim is to run the meetings quarterly. \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\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/
LOCATION:Virgin Money Lounge (Birmingham)\, 136-138 New Street\, Birmingham\, Birmingham\, B2 4NS\, 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:20241210T160000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20241210T173000
DTSTAMP:20260603T002055
CREATED:20241021T100211Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20251118T150840Z
UID:169943-1733846400-1733851800@volunteermanagers.org.uk
SUMMARY:Kind - The Quiet Power of Kindness at Work with Graham Allcott (plus AVM AGM)
DESCRIPTION:Tuesday 10 December 2024 | 4pm to 5.30pm | Online via Zoom\nFree for AVM Members\nWe are delighted to welcome back Graham Allcott\, who gave a keynote talk at the AVM Conference in 2022 about kindful leadership.  \nGraham will be joining us for a special AVM Members’ Book Club where he will be talking about his new book which has just been released\, called KIND – The Quiet Power of Kindness at Work. \nIn KIND\, Graham explores how we can create work cultures that encourage kindness. He argues that\, far from being a ‘fluffy’ or nebulous idea\, kindness and empathy are 21st century superpowers\, which can transform any organisation into a dynamic environment where people want to work.  \nDrawing on psychology and neuroscience as well as management theory and business research\, he shows how kindness helps encourage productive and positive work cultures. \nGraham also offers practical advice on how to make kindfulness part of the fabric of your working life so both you and your team can thrive. \nThis event is being combined with the AVM AGM and all AVM Members are invited to join us for both parts of it. \nWhat if you haven’t read the book yet? \nWe know life is busy\, and sometimes you don’t get around to reading that book before book club.  \nYou don’t need to have read all – or even any – of a book club book to join in the conversation. In fact\, book club is a chance to find out more about a book before deciding to read it. \nAbout the speaker – Graham Allcott\n \nGraham Allcott is an author\, speaker\, and entrepreneur. \nHe is the author of multiple books\, including the global bestseller How to Be a Productivity Ninja\, How to Have the Energy\, and How to Fix Meetings. His latest book\, KIND: The Quiet Power of Kindness at Work\, focuses on why organisations with kinder\, more human-centred cultures are ultimately more successful. \nGraham is the founder of Think Productive\, which since 2009 has been a professional development go-to for a variety of companies\, including Amazon\, British Airways\, Disney\, eBay\, the British Red Cross and many more – and with offices in the UK\, USA\, Canada\, Australia\, New Zealand\, the UAE and the Netherlands. \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
URL:https://volunteermanagers.org.uk/event/december-2024-book-club-avm-agm/
LOCATION:Online on Zoom
CATEGORIES:Member-only event
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://volunteermanagers.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/KIND_TW_3.jpg
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DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20241205T150000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20241205T163000
DTSTAMP:20260603T002055
CREATED:20241031T140717Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20251118T150903Z
UID:170120-1733410800-1733416200@volunteermanagers.org.uk
SUMMARY:Launch of Digital in Volunteering Toolkit
DESCRIPTION:Join us for the online launch of a Digital in Volunteering Toolkit to explore the toolkit\, hear from experts in volunteer management and tech\, and get inspired. The toolkit launch also kicks off a new Community of Practice\, empowering volunteer managers to advocate for their tech needs\, share insights\, and build a supportive network. \nTechnology is changing faster than ever\, and it can be tough to keep up – especially when you’re busy managing volunteers! That’s why we’ve worked with TeamKinetic to develop this toolkit. Packed with practical advice and insights\, the toolkit will help you find the right digital solutions for your needs. \nWant to learn more about the toolkit? Sign up to be the first to get your (virtual) hands on the Toolkit here: https://teamkinetic.co.uk/digitaltoolkit \nThe toolkit was developed by Gethyn Williams\, TeamKinetic\, and the Association of Volunteer Managers (AVM).
URL:https://volunteermanagers.org.uk/event/launch-of-digital-in-volunteering-toolkit/
LOCATION:Online on Zoom
CATEGORIES:Learning & Development
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DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20241127T093000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20241127T110000
DTSTAMP:20260603T002055
CREATED:20241021T102010Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20241126T121059Z
UID:169878-1732699800-1732705200@volunteermanagers.org.uk
SUMMARY:Leading Volunteers Through Change
DESCRIPTION:Leading Volunteers Through Change\nWednesday 27 November 2024 | 9.30 to 11am | Online via Zoom\nTicket Prices: Members £27 | Non-members £43\nHow do we support volunteers through organisational change? \nWhat approaches and strategies can we employ to support our volunteer teams through change? \nOrganisational change is taking place in many charitable organisations across the UK as charities are forced to make difficult decisions to cut back on services and staff and change the nature and scope of those services.  Not-for-profits are facing many challenges including economic uncertainty\, an increased demand for services\, recruitment difficulties\, increased legal obligations\, changing needs of those accessing services and shifts in the political landscape.   \nThese challenges and the changes they bring mean that good communication and effective change management are more vital than ever for staff and volunteer morale.  In this session\, we will be joined by Jeremy Board from St John Ambulance\, who will share his understanding on the nature of change and how engagement and communication can help facilitate change and support people in moving from fearful resistance to positive commitment. \nThis event will cover: \n\nThe nature of change\nHow change affects people\nHow to navigate and facilitate the change journey\nA model for facilitating change\n\nAbout the speaker\nJeremy Board is the Change and Communications Lead at St John Ambulance. He has over 30 years of experience working in communications to facilitate change at organisations such as Apple\, Royal Mail\, University of Portsmouth\, West Sussex County Council\, Aetna International and St John Ambulance. During his career Jeremy has developed an intimate knowledge of change and how it can negatively and positively impact people.  \nAVM members’ discount\nAVM members are eligible for a discount on the event ticket price. Please log in 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. You 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 on this event.
URL:https://volunteermanagers.org.uk/event/leading-volunteers-through-change/
LOCATION:Online on Zoom
CATEGORIES:Learning & Development
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://volunteermanagers.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/change-vapour-in-sky-and-arrow.jpg
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