RNIB’s Commitment to Volunteer Wellbeing
At RNIB we recognise the importance of supporting our volunteer’s wellbeing. Volunteers are the backbone of the organisation, supporting blind and partially people with unwavering commitment and dedication in a variety of roles. We want to share the various opportunities we offer in the wellbeing space.
Employee and Volunteer Assistance Programme
In 2020 we introduced to volunteers the Employee and Volunteer Assistance Programme (EVAP) for additional support including guidance and where appropriate counselling. It is an independent, free, and confidential service available 24 hours a day, seven days a week to all RNIB staff and volunteers, which is provided by Health Assured Ltd. Volunteers can call any time day or night on 0800 028 0199 or 0161 836 9498 from outside the UK.
New Counselling Offer for Volunteers
At RNIB we recently launched a new Counselling Service offer for staff and volunteers who need support. The service can provide access to eight one-hour sessions of confidential counselling almost on an immediate basis, delivered by externally contracted counsellors, all of whom have been trained in the sight loss counselling model and understand the work that the RNIB does. This service is in addition to the Employee and Volunteer Assistance Programme.
Keeping In Touch for Volunteers
These sessions, which are volunteer led, were introduced following feedback from our volunteers. They take place, online, three times a year. They are an opportunity to connect with volunteers from across the organisation, learn more about RNIB and have some fun too.
Wellbeing Nibbles for Volunteers
Following the success of Wellbeing Nibbles for employees, in 2023 we extended this opportunity to volunteers. The sessions provide a space for prioritising wellbeing and sharing ideas about good practices with others. They are delivered, online, throughout year.
Festival of Volunteering
This is a series of in person volunteering events held at locations across the UK. It is a fantastic opportunity to connect with others, celebrate volunteering, hear updates from RNIB and have an enjoyable day with other volunteers and colleagues.
nudge
We are delighted to launch nudge to volunteers in 2024. Putting volunteers in the driving seat of their finances, nudge gives volunteers financial skills and knowledge, designed just for the individual. Find out more here.
Working together
RNIB aims to create an environment where volunteers not only contribute to our meaningful cause but also thrive personally and emotionally. We hope that by listening to our volunteer feedback we can provide a wellbeing offer which achieves this and continues to evolve.
To find out more or to access any of the services please contact [email protected] or 0303 123 9999.
