Reflections on the London Equitable Volunteering Forum: real stories, real change, real connections

When I walked into the first meeting of the London Equitable Volunteering Forum, I wasn't sure what to expect. As someone new to the volunteering sector, I was eager to learn and connect, but I had no idea just how transformative the experience would be. Over the course of this cycle, I found myself inspired and deeply moved by the stories and strategies shared by fellow participants. I want to share some of the most engaging moments and insights, in the hope that they resonate with others – whether you're seasoned volunteer manager or just starting out (like me).

The power of participation: Chris Millora's workshop 

One of the standout sessions for me was led by Dr Chris Millora, a lecturer and assistant professor at Goldsmiths, University of London. He introduced participatory approaches in volunteering. From the very start, Chris had everyone in the room leaning forward, actively contributing ideas, and sharing their experiences. It was the most engaged group I've ever seen at a workshop.

Chris's approach was all about breaking down the barriers between "organisers" and "participants". Instead of top-down decision-making, he encouraged us to co-create solutions with volunteers, ensuring that everyone's voice mattered. We explored practical ways to involve volunteers in shaping programmes. What struck me most was how these methods not only improved outcomes but also fostered a sense of ownership and belonging among volunteers.

Making volunteering accessible: the London School of Economics (LSE) volunteer centre's menu of adjustments 

Another highlight was Sophia Gerth's presentation from LSE's Volunteer Centre. Sophia introduced us to their "menu of adjustments" – a straightforward and visually appealing guide to changes that can be made to better support disabled volunteers. 

What made this session so powerful was its practicality. The menu laid out a variety of options, from flexible scheduling and accessible venues to providing alternative formats for information. It was clear, actionable and easy to understand, making it a valuable resource for organisations of any size. The response from the room was overwhelmingly positive; many attendees shared how the menu resonated with their own experiences and how they were keen to present the idea into their own organisations. For me, it was a reminder that small, thoughtful changes can make a world of difference in creating a truly inclusive environment. 

Real stories, real impact: the James family and English Heritage 

Perhaps the most moving part of the forum was hearing from the James family, who spoke candidly about the challenges they faced in helping their daughter, who has a rare disability, to find a volunteering opportunity. Their story was honest and hopeful. 

What set this session apart was the openness from English Heritage, who shared the hard work and learning required to make their volunteering opportunities more accessible. The volunteer manager who presented this case study didn't shy away from discussing the obstacles of providing a volunteering opportunity for the James's daughter. Listening to both sides of the journey was a powerful reminder that inclusion isn't a one-off achievement; it's a continuous process that demands empathy, collaboration, and humility. 

Building connections: networking, mentoring, and a welcoming community 

As a newcomer to the sector, I was nervous about fitting in. Those fears quickly faded as I met volunteer managers and leaders from a diverse range of charities including Citizens Advice, Sense UK, Habitat for Humanity and Macmillan Cancer Research UK. The atmosphere was warm and inclusive, with a shared commitment to equity, diversity and inclusion (EDI). 

The mentoring programme was another highlight, offering a chance to learn from experienced professionals and gain insights into best practices. I had virtual meet-ups with my mentor once a month, and his wisdom and guidance has truly made a difference to my growth as an EDI leader.  

Final thoughts 

Reflecting on my time at the London Equitable Volunteering Forum, I'm struck by how much I've learned and the number of connections I've made. If you're considering this network, I can't recommend this forum enough!