Insights from our network: How do you recruit and retain volunteers?

3rd June 2026

At Befriending Networks, we’ve been on the road meeting organisations delivering vital befriending services across the UK. So far, we’ve hosted Roadshow networking events in Cardiff, Belfast, Edinburgh, Manchester and online—and at every stop, one conversation consistently stands out: how to recruit and retain volunteers.

During our Manchester event, we asked attendees a simple but powerful question:

“How do you recruit and retain volunteers?”

The insights shared sparked rich discussion and practical ideas, which we’re delighted to highlight here as part of Volunteers’ Week.

How organisations are currently recruiting volunteers

Participants shared a wide range of approaches they use to attract volunteers, including:

• Social media campaigns, including targeted posts tailored to specific interests and skills
• Word of mouth recommendations and referrals from previous clients
• Advertising and promotion, through free local newspapers, community listings, posters and flyers in local spaces, podcasts and radio, organisational websites, and listings on Indeed and LinkedIn
• Collaborating and networking with other local organisations, such as Councils for Voluntary Services (CVS), Job Centres, faith groups, family centres, universities and colleges
• Community events and outreach

These varied methods highlight the importance of meeting potential volunteers where they already are—both online and within their communities.

What makes recruitment successful?

Attendees also reflected on what has worked particularly well when bringing new volunteers on board:

• Offering engaging introductory programmes where volunteers can experience the role first-hand
• Highlighting volunteering as a pathway into paid employment through employment support services
• Building strong partnerships with other organisations to widen reach and credibility

At the heart of successful recruitment is a clear message: volunteering should feel accessible, meaningful, and worthwhile from the very first interaction.

Encouraging volunteer retention

Recruitment is only part of the story—keeping volunteers engaged and supported is just as important. Participants shared a wealth of ideas for encouraging long-term involvement:

• Matching volunteers and service users effectively in 1:1 befriending, through clear briefings on roles and expectations and understanding individual motivations and needs
• Delivering high-quality induction and ongoing training, and offering access to learning opportunities such as Befriending Networks e-learning modules and Befriender Training Toolkit materials
• Creating an open, supportive environment that prioritises wellbeing, and where volunteers can approach staff. This often includes hosting regular check-ins, supervisions and informal catch-ups.
• Offering practical support such as mileage expenses, as well as small incentives—meals, social opportunities or even weekends away
• Gathering and sharing testimonials from volunteers and service users, to celebrate client success stories and share positive experiences
• Offering regular feedback and opportunities for reflection
• Encouraging peer support networks
• Keeping volunteers informed through newsletters

Ultimately, retention comes down to relationships. Volunteers who feel valued, supported and connected are far more likely to stay.

Recognising and celebrating volunteers

Recognition plays a crucial role in volunteer satisfaction. Organisations shared creative and meaningful ways they celebrate their volunteers:

• Hosting social events to build connection and community, including group activities such as museum or aquarium visits
• Presenting certificates of appreciation or sending personalised thank you cards
• Offering references to support future opportunities
• Ensuring volunteers feel part of the wider team
• Nominating volunteers for local awards through CVS networks
• Running volunteer recognition programmes such as “Volunteer of the Month”
• Joining volunteer celebration campaigns such as Volunteers’ Week and Befriending Week

Celebration doesn’t need to be costly—what matters most is sincerity and consistency.

Final Reflections

Volunteers are the heart of befriending services. As we celebrate Volunteers’ Week, it’s clear that while recruitment strategies are important, it’s the ongoing relationships, support, and recognition that truly sustain volunteer involvement.

We’re incredibly grateful to everyone who shared their experiences and insights at our events—and to all the volunteers who make this work possible every day.

There’s still a chance to catch our 2026 Roadshow in London, Glasgow or online! Book now