Volunteers’ Week shines a spotlight on the incredible individuals who give their time and is a perfect moment to acknowledge the vital organisations that host and manage them. A thriving volunteering sector relies not just on willing hands but on well-supported, confident organisations. CAN are that support.

CAN offers tailored one-to-one support to charities and community groups in Dorset, helping them strengthen their volunteer management and grow in confidence. Our practical approach is shaped around their specific needs. From the first step of defining and promoting volunteer roles on our Hub and social media, to navigating more complex challenges, we’re there every step of the way.

Our support extends to essential areas like providing policy templates and reviewing draft documents to ensure safe and effective volunteer practices. We advise on DBS checks, safeguarding queries, and managing challenging situations. We also inspire and equip organisations with ideas for volunteer recognition – vital during weeks like this! – and champion inclusive recruitment, offering guidance for collaborating with volunteers with additional needs. The goal is to help groups create safe, welcoming, and impactful environments for their volunteers.

The impact of this support is clear in the feedback we receive:

• “Thank you for your excellent advice and support around volunteering. We are grateful as it helps us with correct paperwork, governance and support we give to volunteers.” – HealthBus
• “I have used your guidance to ensure that our volunteer handbook and agreement contain the correct information.” – Safe and Sound Dorset

Beyond one-to-one support, quarterly Volunteer Coordinators’ Meetings bring together staff who manage volunteers in the county. These sessions are invaluable for networking, peer support, and shared learning on topics like involving young volunteers or improving recruitment. As one attendee shared, “I really valued the networking session – hearing others’ issues and realising we’re all in a similar boat.” This collaborative spirit strengthens the entire sector.

This Volunteers’ Week, we celebrate not the volunteers and the dedicated organisations and the volunteer coordinators who make volunteering possible. If your organisation could benefit from tailored support to enhance your volunteer programme, we are here to help.

Let CAN help your volunteer programme flourish. Get in touch to discuss your needs.