Supporting Family Volunteers to Increase Retention and Recruitment

Abstract

This study explored South Australian volunteers' motivations for volunteering, their satisfaction with volunteering, and their need for supportive structures. Primary data were collected from volunteers working for a self-funded charitable organisation. A selfenumerated questionnaire was distributed by mail; 214 were completed and returned (66.9% response rate). Of the responding volunteers, 82% (n = 174) were female. All were aged over 60 years (range: 63-76 years; mean: 68 years). Numerical data were entered into SPSS and analysed descriptively. Content analysis was applied to narrative data. Volunteers reported that they volunteered most often to help others, because they had spare time and because of what they received in return. Difficulties experienced included accessing continuing education and training. Organisations engaging volunteers have a responsibility to ensure that volunteers are adequately supported both in their day to day work and in training or education. Volunteers are able to become valued partners in service delivery.

Green Health Partnerships in Scotland; Pathways for Social Prescribing and Physical Activity Referral

“…To help address these issues, one GHP area employed a paid volunteer co-ordinator. Programme co-ordinators can be central to volunteers’ successful experience by setting safe boundaries, allowing volunteers to discuss client wellbeing, resolve disputes and arrange ongoing training [ 42 ]. Participants considered training particularly important to increase skills and confidence.…”