The National Volunteering Strategy 2021-2025 is a comprehensive policy that recognises, supports, and promotes the unique value and contribution of volunteers in Irish society. This strategy outlines an agreed and ambitious vision to put the best possible supports and infrastructure in place so that volunteers and volunteer bodies continue to prosper. Its purpose is to ensure that the role of volunteers is valued and that they are provided with suitable supports, infrastructure, and training to develop sustainable, inclusive, and vibrant communities.
The policy emphasises on the importance of involving, keeping, and releasing volunteers in order to facilitate their contributions to the various activities that they participate in socially, culturally, and economically. It also encourages volunteer organisations to have access to training, advice, and progression opportunities in an effort to retain volunteers and attract more suitable candidates. The policy highlights the need to develop diverse volunteer roles and match volunteers to the right roles that suit their skills and competencies.
The strategy recognises the significant impact volunteers have on the social well-being of Irish society. The policy states that volunteers make a vital contribution to various activities that include supporting arts and heritage, education, health, sport, and the socially marginalised. The document stresses on the importance of a collective end goal to achieve a shared vision for the future of Irish volunteering.
The National Volunteering Strategy 2021-2025 is an important document for professionals and enthusiasts in the field of Heritage. Its themes, key points, and findings are relevant to anyone interested in the development of sustainable, inclusive, and vibrant communities in Ireland. The language of the policy is clear, informative, and direct, ensuring that the target audience is able to gain a solid understanding of the document’s purpose. In conclusion, the document outlines the commitment of the government to acknowledge the importance of volunteering to the social, cultural, and economic development of Irish society.