Written by Toby Brusey, Volunteer Now.
Good relations should be woven into the fabric of our communities. Building welcoming, inclusive and connected places where everyone feels they belong is a shared responsibility, and volunteers have a vital role to play in making that happen.
To support this, volunteers need opportunities to develop the knowledge, confidence and skills required to engage with people from different backgrounds, promote understanding, and strengthen community connections. Investing in volunteers in this way not only benefits communities but also enhances the volunteering experience itself, making it more rewarding, meaningful and enjoyable.
The Good Relations and Volunteering Toolkit, developed by Volunteer Now with support from The Executive Office, provides practical resources, guidance and activities to help volunteers, community groups and organisations put good relations into practice. Covering topics such as diversity, inclusion, faith awareness, community relations and organising inclusive events, the toolkit is designed to support meaningful conversations, challenge myths and stereotypes, and encourage greater understanding between people from different backgrounds.
As Northern Ireland continues to become more diverse, volunteers are uniquely placed to bring people together through everyday interactions, shared experiences and community participation. Whether supporting local projects, organising events or engaging directly with communities, volunteers can help build stronger relationships and foster a greater sense of belonging.
Through its range of downloadable resources, case studies and practical guidance, the toolkit offers accessible support for organisations and volunteers looking to make inclusion and respect an integral part of their work.
We hope the toolkit will help volunteers confidently champion good relations in their communities, ensuring that understanding, respect and inclusion remain at the heart of volunteering and community life.