Volunteering

Volunteer Support, Recruitment & Retention – Best Practice

Supporting the North Northants VCSE to Build, Strengthen and Sustain Volunteer Power. At Aspire NN, we understand that volunteers are the lifeblood of the Voluntary, Community and Social Enterprise (VCSE) sector. Whether your organisation relies on just a handful of passionate people or coordinates large-scale community efforts, recruiting, supporting, and retaining volunteers effectively is essential to long-term success.

We’re here to help. Through tailored support, expert guidance, and shared best practice, Aspire NN is committed to helping VCSE organisations across North Northamptonshire build strong, resilient volunteer programmes that thrive. Whether you’re just starting out or looking to refresh your volunteer strategy, we offer practical and strategic support in the key areas detailed below.

Volunteer Recruitment

Attracting the right volunteers starts with the right approach. We can guide you on:

Writing compelling volunteer role descriptions
Using inclusive and targeted recruitment methods
Promoting roles through local channels and volunteer platforms
Making your offer stand out to today’s volunteers
Reaching underrepresented or hard-to-reach communities
Utilising Community Action Northants Website

Volunteer Onboarding & Induction

First impressions matter. We’ll help you set up welcoming and effective onboarding processes that make volunteers feel informed, supported, and excited to get involved. This includes:

Induction plans and welcome packs
Clear expectations and role clarity
Health & safety and safeguarding essentials
Matching volunteers to roles that fit their motivations and skills

Volunteer Support & Development

Supporting your volunteers well increases satisfaction and encourages long-term commitment. We can help you:

Create a positive volunteer culture
Provide ongoing training and development opportunities
Recognise contributions in meaningful ways
Handle challenges, feedback and support needs proactively

Volunteer Retention & Recognition

Retaining volunteers isn’t about luck – it’s about strategy. We offer advice and tools for:

Understanding what motivates your volunteers
Creating feedback loops and check-ins
Celebrating contributions regularly
Designing exit interviews and pathways for returning volunteers

Practical Tools, Resources & Training

Aspire NN can provide:

1:1 support and consultancy for your organisation
Workshops and webinars on best practice
Peer learning opportunities with other local VCSEs
Access to regional volunteering networks and promotion platforms

Let’s Build a Stronger Volunteer Network Together

Our aim is to help organisations across North Northamptonshire feel confident and equipped to manage volunteers effectively – and sustainably. Whether you’re an established organisation or a grassroots group just getting started, Aspire NN is your partner in volunteer success.

Want to find out more or book a 1:1 support session?

Get in touch with one of our local Co-Managers. Find out when they are next available or request an appointment to strengthen your organisation’s volunteering.

Join our regular Working with Volunteers Forums. Details on our weekly ebulletins.

These regular spaces are for anyone with responsibility for volunteer recruitment and management within their organisation. We share best practice, challenges, training opportunities & updates on volunteering systems within the county.

Louise Armitt

Co-Manager Wellingborough & East Northants
Including: Rushden, Finedon, Irthlingborough, Irchester, Earls Barton, Bozeat, Wollaston, Thrapston & villages, Oundle & villages

Working Hours:
Mon-Fri 9am – 3pm
lou.armitt@aspirenn.org.uk
07802 433771