Find volunteers

Your advert should tell people:

• what your organisation does and what cause or group of people it benefits. Include examples or case studies to help people get a good understanding of your work
• the difference the volunteer will make to your cause. For example, a foodbank volunteer will play an important role in helping families on low incomes access food
• the benefits of volunteering with you. This could include training or opportunities for personal development. You could also highlight the fun and rewarding things about the role, such as meeting new people or helping the local community
• the location and time of volunteering and whether there is any flexibility. This could include the option to volunteer remotely
• how you will pay volunteer expenses and what these will cover
• how you will support accessibility requirements and show your commitment to equity, diversity and inclusion in volunteering
• whether a DBS check is required for the role and your policy on recruiting former offenders
• if you’re looking for people with particular experiences and backgrounds. For example, if you're working with people from a religious community, it may help to have volunteers from the same faith
• how they can find out more. Include links to your website or further resources, and provide a named contact so applicants to get in touch if they have any questions or need help applying.

There are many ways to advertise your role. Use a combination of the following to reach as many new volunteers as possible.

• On your own website
• Through external websites like CharityJob, Do-it, Volunteering Matters, Vinspired and Reach Volunteering
• Volunteer centres and councils for voluntary services
• Leaflets and other printed media
• Organising or speaking at volunteer engagement events
• Press and radio adverts
• Social media such as LinkedIn and Twitter
• Colleges or university student unions
• Community and faith centres
• Local cafes and park notice boards
• Local businesses
• Employer-supported volunteering
• Word of mouth referrals

Volunteers’ Week is also a great opportunity to find volunteers.