Volunteer Managers Forum Summary (15th April 2026): Reflections and Planning

On 15th April, volunteer managers from across Wirral’s VCFSE sector came together at New Hope CIC in Egremont for the latest Volunteer Managers Forum. The session brought together a diverse group of organisations, including some new faces, and created a space for shared learning, reflection and collaboration.

Reflections on 2025 & 2026

Jen delivered a presentation to the group on the impact of the Volunteering team since they started in June 2025. The priorities set for the year had been influences by the suggestions made in the Volunteer Managers Forum and through the survey completed in autumn of 2025, emphasising how Wirral CVS is developing in a sector led way.

Celebrating What Works

A key highlight of the discussion was the continued success of FestiVol. There was strong consensus that the event provides a meaningful way to recognise and thank volunteers, while also creating opportunities for organisations to collaborate. The current format was widely praised, with interest in establishing it as an annual event. Conversations are ongoing about whether it should remain in February or align with Volunteers’ Week to maximise engagement.

Recent partnership work with the Department for Work and Pensions also received positive feedback, particularly the speed networking event and recruitment fair at Birkenhead Market. Attendees are now reflecting on outcomes, including how many attendees have progressed into active volunteering roles and identifying case studies that demonstrate impact.

Building Connections Across Sectors

The forum highlighted the value of reaching beyond traditional networks. Engagement with heritage organisations through the Heritage and Culture Exchange was seen as a positive step in connecting with new groups and broadening opportunities. While there is not yet enough demand to establish a regular forum for this group, the appetite for continued collaboration remains.

Strengthening Skills and Support

Training continues to be a priority for volunteer managers. Recent sessions, particularly those delivered by NCVO, were highly valued, with a clear call for more.

Key training priorities identified include:

• Managing difficult conversations

• Volunteer recruitment and good practice

• Volunteers and the law

• Safeguarding

• Volunteer retention and motivation

• Wellbeing for volunteer managers

There was also recognition of the need for trauma-informed practice training for volunteers themselves.

Wirral CVS will explore how best to respond to these needs, including the potential to commission bespoke training where organisations can provide a venue and sufficient participant numbers.

It was agreed that adding a clause on training courses that stated organisations may be charged for non-attendance would reduce the number of last minute cancellations and non-attendance. It was felt that it was important to state how much the training cost per person so that individuals realise there is a cost associated, even if it is free to them.

Looking Ahead: Forum Themes

Future forums will focus on practical themes that reflect current challenges and opportunities:

• May: Celebrating Volunteers’ Week

• June: Volunteer induction processes

• July: Volunteering and the law

• September: Volunteering policies

Additional areas of interest include collaboration between organisations, sharing volunteers and supporting new volunteer managers.

The Value of Peer Support

A recurring theme throughout the session was the importance of connection. The forum provides a vital space for volunteer managers to share experiences, learn from one another and build supportive relationships.

There was recognition that no two roles are the same. Volunteer management varies widely depending on organisational size, structure and capacity. Creating space for smaller group discussions and tailored conversations will be key to ensuring the forum continues to meet diverse needs. Practical strategies shared by attendees included protecting dedicated time for volunteer administration and capturing volunteer stories and case studies to demonstrate impact.

Making the Case for Volunteer Management

A significant discussion focused on the challenges of resourcing volunteer management. Many organisations rely heavily on volunteers, yet dedicated volunteer manager roles are often underfunded or absorbed into wider responsibilities.

Evidence shows that organisations with embedded volunteer strategies and dedicated roles achieve stronger recruitment and retention. The group agreed on the need to collectively advocate for volunteer management as a core function within VCFSE organisations, not an add-on.

What Happens Next

Following the forum:

• Presentation materials will be shared for further feedback

• Organisations will provide updates on recruitment outcomes and case studies

• Work will begin on developing a responsive training programme

• Opportunities for one-to-one support remain available through Wirral CVS

If your organisation has specific training needs or would benefit from tailored support, please get in touch. The Volunteer Managers Forum continues to be shaped by its members, ensuring it remains relevant, practical and rooted in the realities of the sector.

The Next Volunteer Managers Forum will take place on Tuesday 19th May at Byrne Avenue Baths, Rock Ferry