Conclusion References Our research has demonstrated that employer supported skills-based volunteering is an overwhelmingly positive force for good in the voluntary sector. It has particular potential to strengthen the voluntary sector and drive growth despite the effect of the recession, if partnerships are designed for sustainability and focus on skills-transfer. The feedback from companies, employees, VCOs and brokers who are currently successfully engaged in this activity provides us with evidence supporting the case to encourage its wider uptake. We have identified through the research that there is patchy uptake in London, with pockets of excellence in Westminster and the City. However, uptake remains poor generally across the UK. Given the current economic climate, this is an ideal means to contribute effectively to the voluntary sector, and in consequence, the local community. The purpose of the pilot studies recommended in this report is to create a small number of ambassador projects across the regions, which will demonstrate the value of skills-sharing volunteering across the UK. The pilot phase will involve the implementation of innovative projects designed and carried out by the selected three local/regional brokers. The approaches to engaging local partners, addressing the challenges and increasing capacity will inevitably be varied, and this is an exciting opportunity for brokers to really play a leading role in identifying a successful model that others can replicate.
1. Points of Light Foundation review: Top Seven Trends Affecting Employee Volunteer Programs, (2006) 2. Points of Light Foundation review: The Promise Employee Skill-Based Volunteering Holds for Employee Skills and Nonprofit Partner Effectiveness: A Review of Current Knowledge, (2007) 3. A Corporate Citizenship report for The Nationwide Foundation and Abbey Charitable Trust: Developing understanding around non-financial support, (2007) 4. A Corporate Citizenship report for ACEVO: Investing in Leaders: a new aspect in corporate social responsibility, (2008) 5. Sally Clegg and Liz Goodey (CAF), Patricia Walls and Karl Wilding (NCVO), and Dr Sylke Schnepf and Professor John Micklewright, School of Social Sciences, University of Southampton: (Who gives to what cause?): UK Giving 2008: An overview of charitable giving in the UK in 2007/08, (2008)
Essentially, this report has demonstrated that there is enthusiasm and support for the principle of skills-based volunteering, as well as an understanding of its value to both donors and beneficiaries. The perceived challenges now need to be addressed to encourage a shift in the way that companies contribute, so that this value can continue to be realised (and even increased) despite the effects of a difficult economic climate. Through increased cross-sector collaboration and teamwork for best practice in phase 2, this objective can be achieved.
Forging Sustainable Partnerships between Businesses and Communities: Conclusion
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