Our Volunteering Development Officer, Dave Thomas, takes a close look at 'volunteering' and asks what is it – and what it isn’t. 

Volunteering has long been at the heart of community life, a way for individuals to contribute time, energy, and expertise to causes that matter. But at its core, volunteering isn’t just about the act of giving; it’s about creating connections, sharing skills, and making a difference—often in small but meaningful ways. So, what exactly is volunteering, and why does it hold such a special place in society?

Volunteering Development Officer Dave Thomas draws inspiration from a famous Shakespeare play for this week's blog, as he explores the various names people use for volunteering. Does a rose by any other name smell as sweet? How would renaming volunteering affect our perception of it? 

The term volunteering originates from the Latin word voluntarius, meaning 'of one’s free will'. This highlights a key aspect of volunteering: the idea of freely offering time and effort without compulsion or expectation of reward.

Trustees' Week, 4 to 8 November, is a time to honour the incredible work of trustees.

Here are some little-known facts about trustees:

Nottingham has been host to a series of More in Common Community Dialogues since 2023. Nottingham is now part of the ever-growing More in Common Network, dedicated to Jo Cox’s message of unity. In October, as a partner organisation, NCVS attended one of these events to hear directly from Nottingham's communities about their experiences.

There is no deadline, you are welcome to apply at any time. Please note, that decisions may take up to three months

The Boost Charitable Trust aims to fund and support inspiring programmes that help improve the lives of people who are disabled and disadvantaged through the power of sport.

Helen Oparinde, NCVS Group Support Coordinator (Broxtowe Borough), was invited to deliver a small group training session at Rural Community Action Nottinghamshire's (RCAN) Broxtowe Borough‘s cluster meeting on Tuesday 22 October 2024.

Since 2013, NCVS has been proud to sponsor the Black Achievers Awards. Since 2016, Davia McKoy, NCVS Projects Support Administrator, has played an integral role in ensuring the smooth running of the event. This year, our Communications and Marketing Coordinator, Billie Ault, had the privilege of attending the awards on behalf of NCVS and presenting a very special award to a very special lady.

In this blog, Dave Thomas, NCVS Volunteering Development Officer considers the training that Leaders of Volunteers deliver to new and existing volunteers. You might want to grab a cup of tea and a biscuit for this one, this blog is packed full of useful info!

There is no stated deadline. However, all funding must be spent by Friday 28 February 2025, so it is advised to apply as soon as possible

This fund closed to applications on Friday 8 November 2024

The Comic Relief Community Fund is offering grants of up to £5,000 for grassroots, community-led organisations in England to help support the delivery of services and activities that benefit local communities.

Funding can be used for direct project costs or to support your core running expenses. Whether you need help with staff wages, materials, rent or training – this fund is flexible to meet the needs of your organisation.