Doncaster launches city-wide Volunteer Bank

Doncaster is set to revitalise local volunteering with the launch of a new digital Volunteer Bank, connecting volunteers with the community opportunities across the city.

Led by the Doncaster Culture and Leisure Trust (DCLT) managed Social Isolation Alliance, commissioned by Well Doncaster, the initiative will unite volunteers of all backgrounds – from residents with spare time to individuals eager to give back to the community, and businesses seeking to strengthen their community involvement – with organisations needing support.

The program will operate through the Voluntero app, as part of a Community Leisure UK initiative to increase volunteer opportunities to support leisure trusts. This Active Kindness programme is funded by the National Lottery Community Fund.

"We're thrilled to pioneer this digital Volunteer Bank in Doncaster, through the Voluntero platform," said Toni Illman, chief funding and information officer at DCLT.

"While Doncaster has historically had volunteer services, we've identified a gap in effectively matching volunteers' skills with appropriate opportunities. This new platform creates a seamless connection between volunteers and community needs."

The app facilitates matching volunteers with 'missions' – specific opportunities that align with their skills, interests, and availability. This innovative approach allows for flexible volunteering that fits modern schedules while maximising community impact.

Doncaster Volunteer Bank will also collaborate with the Department for Work and Pensions to provide valuable work experience opportunities for job seekers, and will support youth volunteering initiatives, including Duke of Edinburgh Award participants.

Ros Jones, Mayor of Doncaster, said: “This is fantastic news for Doncaster. Volunteering is a great way to give back and get involved in local communities. Often people consider volunteering but don’t know how to get involved or whether there’s the right opportunities for them. This will provide an easy and accessible matching service that helps volunteers overcome any barriers and get the perfect match for their skills and availability.”

The initiative will launch in phases, with the initial stage focusing on recruiting traditional volunteers – community members eager to contribute their time and expertise to help others.

"This platform represents a transformative step in building capacity for our voluntary, community, and faith sector while showcasing the diverse opportunities available in Doncaster," Toni adds.

In addition to recruiting the volunteers to the bank, the social isolation alliance will facilitate completing DBS checks for required missions.

Anyone interest in finding out more about the Volunteer Bank please contact doncastervolunteerbank@dclt.co.uk