Wheels for All Volunteer Survey results!

Survey Overview

The aim of the survey, which will now be undertaken annually, was to understand how satisfied our volunteers are in their role, what we are doing well and where we could be doing better. A total of 45 volunteers completed the survey. Volunteers were asked to rate their experiences, provide open feedback, and share suggestions for improvement around the key areas of our volunteer journey including recruitment, training, retention, and recognition.

Key Findings

1. Volunteer recruitment: The process for volunteers joining Wheels for All is a crucial one that needs to be made of simple steps yet provide all the information required for volunteers to feel comfortable carry out their new role safely. We are happy that 98% of volunteers understand what is expected of them in their role as a volunteer. Overall, volunteers rated their experiences of joining the charity as a volunteer as 4 out of 5.

2. Volunteer training: Training is an important part of any volunteer role, and we’re pleased to note that 93% of our volunteers feel that they can access appropriate training and development opportunities ensuring they can perform their volunteer role to the best of their ability. This is reflected in that 80% of our volunteers feel confident to carry out their role safely and effectively based on the training they received. However, with it taking over 12 weeks for 56% of our volunteers to access the Wheels for All training, there is a need to have a more flexible delivery model to ensure volunteers are receiving the knowledge they require early in their volunteer journey.

3. Volunteer retention: As a charity we pride ourselves on creating welcoming spaces for everyone so we were delighted to see that 96% of our volunteers feel comfortable being themselves whilst volunteering with us; and/or can express opinions freely and feel listened to. It was also fantastic learning of the social benefits our volunteers have gained including 88% of volunteers reporting they have new friends through volunteering with Wheels for All.

4. Volunteer recognition: Our volunteers are integral to what we do and are thrilled that 89% of volunteers are proud to volunteer with us. We were delighted to learn that every volunteer who completed the survey said they would recommend volunteering with Wheels for All. Through the survey volunteers outlined their top 5 types of recognition as
   a. Participant thanks make volunteering worthwhile (29%)
   b. Wheels for All volunteer clothing (16%)
   c. Official recognition is of no particular value to me (13%)
   d. Feedback about your contribution (11%)
   e. Personal thank you (8%)

At the bottom of this article, you can view some infographics further summarising our survey results.

Looking ahead: Next steps

Based on the survey results, our volunteers told us they would like to see:

• Quicker access to Wheels for All training after starting as a volunteer
• Training opportunities available around wider personal development topics that will support their role
• Opportunities to network with other volunteers and share best practice
• Better connection to the charity’s vision, mission, and other hubs in their region
• More thorough communication to help understanding of any changes of direction, policies, or process
• More opportunities to have their say and be consulted in key decisions involving volunteers

We used these findings to help shape our volunteer strategy prior to release, ensuring the recommendations within the strategy would help improve these areas.

Thank you for your input!

Thank you to all our volunteers who participated in the survey and for your continued support. Together, we are creating a meaningful difference in local communities.

We are incredibly grateful for the dedication and passion that our volunteers bring to every session. This survey has provided invaluable insights that helped us shape our volunteer strategy and in turn help us focus on the right areas to improve the keys of our volunteer’s journey. We are committed to creating an environment where our volunteers feel supported, valued, and inspired to continue making a positive impact.

Moving forward our annual survey will be a key measure for us to monitor the success of our recently launched volunteer strategy. Each year once the survey results have been analysed, we will provide a similar update to share the key findings.