Published Date: Nov 10th, 2022
Fife Council has received the Investing in Volunteers (IiV) accreditation from Volunteer Scotland.
IiV is the UK quality standard for organisations that involve volunteers in their activities. It is a development process designed to ensure that volunteers receive the appropriate support and guidance to develop and enhance their volunteering skills, knowledge, experience, and well-being. It also helps identify the effectiveness of volunteer involvement.
Katy Penman – Volunteer Scotland, Volunteer Practise Manager said: “Investing in Volunteers [IiV] is a UK award with a unique focus on volunteering. To become an IiV Achiever, an organisation requires to demonstrate their commitment to volunteers and be able to fully evidence high-quality support for its volunteers.”
“To date, more than 200 organisations from all over Scotland have achieved the award. Volunteer Scotland is delighted to now include Fife Council among its achievers.”
Selina Ross – Investing in Volunteers Assessor said: “It was an absolute pleasure to spend time with the staff and volunteers and hear their positive experiences of engagement.”
“The enthusiasm and drive from volunteers of all ages has been inspiring, and the commitment shown by the staff team to developing a holistic volunteering programme has been key to the success of the service.”
Fife Council’s Community and Neighbourhoods spokesperson, Councillor Linda Erskine said: “We’re delighted to receive the Investing in Volunteers accreditation.”
“When Covid hit, the response from the local community and volunteers was incredible. It was encouraging to see communities coming together and supporting each other when they needed it the most.”
“As we move towards a post-COVID working environment, our valued volunteers continue to play a vital role so it’s important that we ensure our volunteering provision is of the highest quality and in line with current best practice guidelines.”
“Our vision within the Council is to help local people to live happier, healthier and more fulfilled lives through volunteering. We’re also committed to ensuring that volunteering is an interesting, enjoyable, and safe experience.”
Council Volunteer Barbara Dunning concluded: "Being a volunteer enriches your life. As a resident of a high-rise building, I love volunteering in the community garden. It has improved my mental health; I’m also learning new skills and really enjoying being part of a great team."