It’s now established as the premier event for civil servants to share knowledge and expertise.
Entrepreneur Peter Jones was again on hand throughout the event to encourage innovation, while our stand saw plenty of trade from delegates buying 125th anniversary appeal draw tickets, signing up as volunteers, or getting more information about our Help and Advisory services.
With Carer’s Passport now being embedded within the wellbeing policy of departments such as HM Revenue and Customs, it was a great way of hearing what our target audience wants from its charity.
The workshop on Thursday afternoon drew a capacity crowd, with over a hundred people gathered to hear about the growing importance being placed on volunteering in the civil service.
Fund Trustee Richard Corden led the session which included presentations from Dr. Justin Davis Smith, CEO of Volunteering England and John Knights who leads on the Office for Civil Society work on volunteering.
An insight into the personal impact of volunteering was also given by Craig Tovey, now Area Development Manager for Wales and the South West, who explained how his involvement with the Fund started through volunteering.
A final rousing address from Sir Gus O’Donnell was the highlight; bringing his usual passion and commitment and getting a terrific reception from the audience.
Director for People Nicola Pountney says the workshop went extremely well: “To have standing room only for the volunteer session was a big thrill for everyone involved including all members of the Volunteer Support Team, who’ve worked tirelessly to arrange the event.
“Hopefully it will encourage more decision-makers in the civil service to recognise the extent of the Fund’s work and the value of our volunteering roles.
"With 4 million people in the UK estimated have connections with the civil service, including current and former staff and their dependants, it is important that the Fund’s volunteering activities are recognised and promoted alongside those of other charities and voluntary organisations through employer supported volunteering schemes."
