Volunteer Hub

Welcome to the Volunteer Hub, a dedicated resource for organisations across Southampton looking to recruit, support and develop their volunteers. Here you’ll find practical guidance on every stage of volunteer management – from attracting new volunteers to providing training and ensuring good practice. The hub also offers access to useful templates, factsheets, and key documents, as well as information on Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR), the latest newsletters, volunteer statistics, and more. Whether you’re a community group, charity, or business engaging with volunteering, this is your one-stop space for the tools and insights you need.

Our year so far...

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applications made for volunteering opportunities advertised through SOLID since January 2025

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volunteering opportunities currently being advertised on SOLID

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people have attended the Volunteer Drop-in service since January 2025

Volunteer Coordinator Forum

The Volunteer Coordinator Forum, established less than a year ago, brings together volunteer coordinators and managers from across Southampton. The group meets quarterly to share ideas, discuss all aspects of volunteering, and explore ways to make a positive impact in the city. With volunteering at the heart of everything we do, the forum provides a welcoming space to connect, collaborate, and celebrate the power of volunteering.

How to Recruit Volunteers

Southampton Voluntary Services (SVS) has over 50 years’ experience supporting volunteer managers and coordinators across the city. We offer guidance on best practice, advice on recruitment, access to training, and opportunities to network through our Volunteer Coordinators’ Group and newsletters. SVS also helps promote roles locally and county-wide, and can showcase your opportunities at outreach events, universities, and community activities.

Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) Days

Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) Days are opportunities for businesses to give back to their local communities. On these days, a team of employees from a company spends time away from their usual workplace to support a charity, voluntary organisation, or community group. This might involve taking part in a practical project, lending professional skills, or helping with a one-off activity. CSR Days not only provide valuable support to community groups but also offer companies a chance to strengthen team bonds, boost staff morale, and demonstrate their commitment to social impact.

Register a Volunteering Opportunity

Do you have a volunteering role to share? Southampton Voluntary Services, through our SO:Linked project, helps local organisations connect with people who want to give their time and skills. By submitting your opportunity, we’ll advertise it on our SOLID directory, making it visible to volunteers across the city. Whether you’re a charity, community group or social enterprise, this is the easiest way to reach new volunteers and grow your team.

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"Southampton Voluntary Services provide invaluable support to our communities across Southampton and acts as a central point for our vibrant and active voluntary sector in the city."
STEPHANIE RAMSEY
HAMPSHIRE, SOUTHAMPTON IOW CCG

The Volunteer Voice Show

We’re excited to launch The Volunteer Voice, a brand-new monthly talk show airing as part of The Community Hour on Awaaz FM, Fiesta 95 FM, and Southampton Voluntary Services (SVS). Hosted by Katie Andrews, SVS’s Volunteer Development Officer and the renowned Arif Faizi from Awaaz FM, the show shines a light on Southampton’s vibrant community spirit.

The Southampton Volunteer 100 Hours Awards

In 2025, SVS proudly re-launched the 100 Hours Awards, recognising the outstanding contributions of local volunteers. More than 28 organisations from across SO14 to SO19 put forward nominations, and together at Southampton’s Civic Centre in the Mayors Parlour room, we celebrated over 100 volunteers over three events who have given thousands of hours to their community. In total, nominees contributed an amazing 23,000+ hours of volunteer time, a true testament to the strength of our city’s volunteer spirit.

Volunteering Good Practice Documents & Factsheets

Volunteer Policy
Recruiting Volunteers Guide
Volunteer Expenses Fact Sheet
Retaining Volunteers – New Responsibility Tips
Online Volunteer Recruitment Advert Tips
Volunteer Recruitment Ideas