Carers UK is delighted to have achieved the UK-wide quality mark for organisations involving volunteers during the charity’s 60th anniversary year.
Awarded by Investing in Volunteers, the quality mark is evidence of the strength of the charity’s volunteering programme. This programme has been running for 14 years, though volunteers have played a key role in the development of Carers UK throughout its 60-year history.
Nearly 500 people, the majority of whom are unpaid carers themselves, volunteer with Carers UK using their expertise and experience to help achieve the organisation’s goals.
Assessors from Investing in Volunteers scored Carers UK against six quality areas, including its volunteer vision, its planning, inclusion, support and development of volunteers.
At the end of a nine-month period, which involved rigorous self-assessment, the creation of an improving practice plan and interviews with staff, volunteers and trustees, Carers UK was said to excel in all aspects of working with its volunteers.
Matthew Mackenzie is a Community Connector and Insight Volunteer with Carers UK. He helps carers access support by sharing leaflets and posters in his local area. He also shares his knowledge as a carer himself to help shape the charity’s support and campaigns.
Matthew said: “Volunteering with Carers UK is a truly rewarding experience, especially with my lived experience as a carer. I feel I have a lot I can share and offer because of this, and I feel a real sense of making a difference.”
Carers UK was praised by assessors for the wide variety and flexibility of its volunteer roles, which are carefully tailored to meet individuals’ needs and fit around caring commitments.
Volunteers are supported with regular updates and opportunities for contact with others through get-togethers and monthly online meet-ups, where ideas can be shared.
Michael Shann, Carers UK’s Head of Carer Support, said:
“We are delighted to receive this award in recognition of our programme and all that our volunteers contribute to our work. Carers UK’s volunteers are some of the most inspiring people I have ever met. We couldn’t do what we do without them, which is why it’s important that we’re able to ensure we’re giving them the best experience.”
As Carers UK celebrates its 60th anniversary year, volunteers are playing a big part in this -supporting with events to reach and recognise carers, as well as raising awareness on social media, with employers in the workplace and fundraising.
