Our History

History

The Association was formed in 1990. Over the next four years conferences took place annually where discussions identified a need for a National Association to provide training and support for potential members and a voice at national level for Voluntary Services Managers/Co-ordinators.

In the years following its formation, the Association achieved much of what it was set up to do. It earned a reputation as a voice for good practice in managing volunteers, setting up and encouraging high standards.

As the Association moved forward and grew in numbers, it had to meet the challenges of the developments in palliative care. It also had to acknowledge the changes in the world of volunteering and in the role of Voluntary Services Manager/Co-ordinator.

The need for members to play a more active role in the business of the Organisation became increasingly clear. By 1999, after consultations at regional and national level, a new Mission Statement was agreed, together with Aims and Objectives.