The Parks Trust has achieved Investing in Volunteers Accreditation
We are delighted to announce that The Parks Trust has been awarded the prestigious Investing in Volunteers (IiV) accreditation, signifying our commitment to volunteer management standards.
Setting the Standard for Volunteer Management
Investing in Volunteers (IiV) serves as a benchmark for volunteer management excellence in the UK. It represents a high standard of practice and signifies an organisation's dedication to providing valuable volunteer opportunities that benefit the local community and the environment.
A Journey Towards Improvement
We recognise the invaluable contribution of volunteers to The Parks Trusts’ mission to provide beautiful parks, lakes, woods, and landscapes that will be loved by the people of Milton Keynes, forever. Our volunteers undertake a wide range of volunteering roles in support of our operational, events, outdoor learning and ranger teams. They willingly donate their time and energy, often serving the charity over many years. In 2022 alone they collectively contributed over 10,000 hours to The Trust.
Meeting the IiV Standards
Earning this accreditation required The Trust to demonstrate our observance of the IiV standard set out by awarding volunteering bodies across the UK and outline our plans for ongoing improvements. Both staff and volunteers were interviewed to provide insights into their experiences.
One staff member emphasised the significance of volunteers, stating, "We can't do what we do without volunteers; they enhance what we offer." This reflects the cooperative relationship between the organisation and our volunteers, highlighting the vital role volunteers play in amplifying the impact of our work.
When asked to share their experiences, one volunteer stated, "You feel supported and valued." This sentiment reflects the Trust’s commitment to ensuring that volunteers are not just contributors but integral members of the team. Another volunteer shared, "It's the feeling that I'm getting involved in keeping Milton Keynes' green spaces at their best." This sentiment showcases the sense of purpose and fulfilment that volunteers gain from their roles, knowing they are making a tangible difference in their community.
Recognising Volunteer Dedication
The Parks Trust achievement of the Investing in Volunteers accreditation is a recognition of our commitment to volunteer engagement. It highlights our dedication to contributing to a thriving volunteer community that enhances the city's green spaces and enriches our communities.
As we celebrate this accomplishment, we would like to thank all those who play a vital part in our volunteering programme and want to recognise the amazing commitment of our wonderful team of volunteers.
Find out more about volunteering at The Parks Trust
