Member news

By convening partners, listening to communities and grounding action in lived experience, LIOs are shaping volunteering systems that respond to what people and places need now.‍ One example comes from NAVCA member Birmingham Voluntary Service Council (BVSC), which has demonstrated how a clear, shared vision can help reshape volunteering across an entire city.‍

Artificial intelligence is already changing the way organisations work, and the VCSE sector is no exception. But whilst interest in AI is growing rapidly, many smaller charities and community organisations still lack the confidence, knowledge and support needed to use these tools safely and effectively.

Inspired by Humans of New York, Volunteers of Leeds is now in its third year of shining a spotlight on people from all backgrounds and walks of life who are making change in their communities. Over that time, it has strengthened the visibility of volunteering across the city, become a touchpoint for a wide range of partners, and deepened the relationship between Leeds Museums and Galleries and Volunteer Centre Leeds.

Our spring/summer training programme is designed with NAVCA members in mind: practical, relevant and affordable support that reflects the realities of your work. Find out more here.

In March, York CVS welcomed Stephanie Peacock MP, Minister for Sport, Tourism, Civil Society and Youth, to see first-hand how strong local partnerships are making a difference to people’s lives.

Thriving communities don’t happen by accident. When people have access to volunteering opportunities, spaces to socialise and meet new people, and public services that meet their needs, health and wellbeing improves. A strong and effective voluntary, community and social enterprise (VCSE) sector can support this, but only with a network of support, relationships and coordination that often goes unseen – that’s where NAVCA members come in.