Embedding inclusion into everyday practice | Case Study

Albany and Regional Volunteer Service delivered face-to-face training tailored specifically to the organisation’s program. Rather than a traditional training session, the process was approached as a conversation, allowing staff to openly discuss concerns, assumptions, perceived barriers, and practical considerations around inclusive volunteering.

Discussions focused on the unique volunteer roles available within the organisation, exploring how these roles could be adapted to support volunteers of all abilities. The training also covered practical strategies such as offering volunteer trial periods, reviewing volunteer handbooks, and creating supportive onboarding processes that allow volunteers and organisations to determine whether a role is the right fit.

Following the training, the Volunteer Coordinator used the Ability in Action Impact Assessment Tool to undertake a comprehensive review of the organisation’s volunteering program. They carefully examined every aspect of volunteer involvement, identifying existing strengths as well as opportunities to improve inclusion and accessibility.

The review resulted in a practical action plan designed to strengthen inclusive volunteering practices across the organisation. The Volunteer Coordinator also began aligning the organisation’s practices with the National Standards for Volunteer Involvement and developing an evidence portfolio to demonstrate their implementation. Albany and Regional Volunteer Service continued to provide ongoing mentoring and support.

• Comprehensive review of volunteer practices using the Ability in Action Impact Assessment Tool.
• Development of an action plan to strengthen inclusive volunteering practices.
• Increased alignment with the National Standards for Volunteer Involvement.
• Greater confidence in supporting volunteers with lived experience of disability and mental health challenges.
• Ongoing review of volunteer resources, including volunteer onboarding and support processes.
• Exploration of new initiatives to improve accessibility.
• Genuine commitment to continuous improvement and inclusive practice.
• Willingness to reflect, learn, implement change and take practical steps towards building a more inclusive volunteering sector, one conversation and one improvement at a time.