Project Aims

The research sets out to explore patterns of volunteering and the challenges currently facing Volunteer Involving Organisations (VIOs), particularly those based in rural areas. There will be a strong geographical basis to the study, whereby patterns of volunteering in different areas will be identified and explored. Based on a survey and interviews with Volunteer Involving Organisations, the project will address the following key research questions:

What challenges do VIOs face in recruiting and retaining volunteers in different regions (urban/rural) and sectors (e.g. youth work, sport, etc.). Which areas and sectors are most likely to experience difficulties in recruiting and retaining volunteers?

• What are the implications of low levels of volunteer recruitment: (a) for the operation of VIOs; and (b) for the local communities which they serve?
• What are the routes/pathways into volunteering in different areas/sectors and how might these be strengthened?
• What strategies have VIOs found to be most effective in attracting and retaining volunteers?
• To what extent do VIOs avail of services provided through volunteer centres? What more can volunteer centres do to support VIOs?
• What more could be done at a local, regional and national level to promote volunteering and support VIOs?

Project Funders

Munster Volunteer Centres

Project Duration

October 2019 - April 2020

Project Team

Dr Margaret Scanlon and Professor Fred Powell