// Volunteer Toolkit launched to assist volunteer management in charity retail
// It’s designed for charity shop managers, deputy managers & lead volunteers and aims to deliver actionable insight
The Charity Retail Association has launched a brand new resource to help charity shop operators learn about and implement better management techniques.
Known as the Volunteer Toolkit, the free resource for members combines expertise and experience to bring suggestions and ideas on how to effectively and confidently manage charity shop volunteers.
The toolkit is comprised of four units, plus a FAQ document, that covers recruitment, induction, recognition and managing conflict.
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The toolkit is designed for charity shop managers, deputy managers and lead volunteers and aims to deliver actionable insight with activities to help put the theory into practice.
“We knew there was a need to create this resource for our members, as volunteers are the very life-blood of charity retail,” Charity Retail Association chief executive Robin Osterley said.
“Shops simply wouldn’t be able to operate without them, so we need to ensure that the volunteers’ needs are met, and the whole process from recruiting to recognising the volunteers’ contribution is effective for everyone.
“We know that charity shops are experiencing a shortage in volunteers following the lockdown, and now it is more important than ever to nurture existing volunteers and to inspire new people to give their time to help in shops.
“The role that volunteers play in the charity retail sector is vital, and without them, charities are unable to raise much-needed funds for their respective causes. Our resource arms shop managers and lead volunteers with the tools they need to effectively manage volunteers in this uncertain time.”
The toolkit was written by Daniel O’Driscoll of Engagement Consultancy, with input from Acorns Children’s Hospice, Age UK Cheshire, British Heart Foundation, Cancer Research UK, Edinburgh Dog and Cat Home, Matthew Plumridge Training, NCVO, PDSA, Sense, Tenovus Cancer Care and Willow Foundation.
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