We’re improving the volunteering experience at RDA by rethinking how we welcome and support new volunteers. 

The aim of this piece of work is to review and improve the volunteer induction and onboarding process across RDA, so that: 

• It’s simpler and easier for new volunteers (and their chosen Group/Centre) to get started 

• Volunteering is more accessible and inclusive to a wider range of people 

• Volunteers consistently have the best possible experience and support — wherever, whenever, and however they choose to give their time to RDA

The world is changing — and so are the ways people choose to spend their time and volunteer. We want to ensure every new volunteer experiences the best of RDA right from the start. 

This will help us attract new volunteers — and support existing ones to stay. 

We believe the best way to make this happen is to design it with volunteers, not just for them — which is why this project is proudly “For Volunteers, By Volunteers.” 

That’s why we’re inviting RDA volunteers to shape this work from the very beginning — so the results are truly “Volunteer Approved.” ✅ 

We’re creating a dedicated group to shape this project from beginning to end. 

This co-design group will work alongside the National Office team to: 

• Explore what’s working (and not working) in how we welcome new volunteers 

• Share lived experiences and ideas 

• Co-create new resources, tools, or approaches 

• Review and test drafts before anything is launched 

• Champion inclusion, accessibility, and best practice throughout 

In short — this group will set the direction, challenge assumptions, and make sure what we create really works for volunteers across RDA. 

This is a key part of our “For Volunteers, By Volunteers” approach — ensuring real experiences and voices are at the heart of everything we do.