How to Make New Friends

‘There is nothing on this earth more to be prized than true friendship’ – Thomas Aquinas. Creating new friendships can sometimes seem like a mountain to overcome, especially when you’re unsure of w...

How I helped make sure Team v put young people at the heart of their future work

How I helped make sure Team v put young people at the heart of their future work Charlee Bennett, one of our Team v leaders from Wokingham, explains what it was like to take part in the peer evalua...

Making Y-fronts from nettles and other world changing ideas...

Making Y-fronts from nettles and other world changing ideas... Last week at vInspired, we had the pleasure of welcoming John-Paul Flintoff to speak at our regular Innovation Lunch. These lunches pr...

Helping Haiti

Helping Haiti Recent news has been dominated with the story of the Haitian earthquake. Hitting on 13th January, it is predicted that more than 100,000 people were killed, many of whom are still bur...

How corporate sponsors can measure their social value

How corporate sponsors can measure their social value Max Wind-Cowie is Head of the Progressive Conservatism Project at Demos. His specialist areas include wealth and assets, the 'Big Society' and ...

We all have the potential to change the world

We all have the potential to change the world Last week at vInspired, we had the pleasure of welcoming John-Paul Flintoff to speak at our regular Innovation Lunch. These lunches provide an importan...

We're delighted to have received a BYC Youth on Board Award!

We're delighted to have received a BYC Youth on Board Award! We’re absolutely delighted to have received recognition for our youth involvement work, by winning the British Youth Council’s (BYC) You...

vInspired brings Disney Friends for Change to the UK!

vInspired brings Disney Friends for Change to the UK! vInspired is delighted to announce an exciting new partnership with Disney and Youth Service America (YSA) to introduce the Disney Friends for ...

Challenging Disadvantaged Thinking

Challenging Disadvantaged Thinking Alastair Lichten is a campaigns intern at the Foyer Federation, a charity that supports Foyers and other organizations in transforming opportunities for young peo...

Young people challenge Michael Gove's comments on youth policy

Young people challenge Michael Gove's comments on youth policy Young people from 15 youth organisations, including vInspired, have joined forces to write to the Education Secretary expressing their...

Learning through evaluation on Team v

Learning through evaluation on Team v We’re proud to be working together with CFE to evaluate the impact of Team v, our network powered by young people who are socially aware and want to change thi...

In year 11 or 12? Enjoy a fun and life-changing summer to remember this year!

In year 11 or 12? Enjoy a fun and life-changing summer to remember this year! Last year, a group of young people from across the country came together to have one of the most fun and rewarding expe...

Celebs with a cause: guess whose knickers were auctioned for £1600?!

Celebs with a cause: guess whose knickers were auctioned for £1600?! [caption id="attachment_8112" align="alignright" width="280" caption="How much for the pants?"][/caption] From auctioning underw...

Volunteer of the Month - June

Volunteer of the Month - June 67492 Jan Flisek-Boyle Rand has won June’s Volunteer of the Month. Rand ran the highly successfulCashpointprojectArtful Children to provide a creative time for Syrian ...

High street heroes: re-connecting young people with their towns

High street heroes: re-connecting young people with their towns On Saturday 26th May, Local Government Minister, Grant Shapps named the 12 town centres that will share in a £1.2m investment program...

Young people need a range of social and financial opportunities to succeed

Young people need a range of social and financial opportunities to succeed When we relaunched our vInspired Cashpoint programme (which offers small grants to budding social entrepreneurs) a couple ...

With more varied opportunities, young people will close the skills gap

With more varied opportunities, young people will close the skills gap Last week saw the Government publish another set of NEET figures nudging the one million mark. In the same week, ‘Lost in Tran...

vInspired brings US Do Something movement to the UK

vInspired brings US Do Something movement to the UK vInspired has long understood that sometimes young people need to dip their toes in volunteering and decide where they wantgo from there. Serial ...

Big Blow for Big Society

Big Blow for Big Society In just four months vschools had established a universal volunteering and social action initiative for every State secondary school in England. Feedback from schools and lo...

Doing 'Good For Nothing'

Doing 'Good For Nothing' v has launched the ‘Good For Nothing’ campaign to turn negative youth stereotypes on their head by showcasing four of its young volunteers who give up their time for free t...

Blanchflower on the recession

Blanchflower on the recession v was very pleased to welcome Professor David Blanchflower, the former Bank of England Monetary Policy Committee Member and youth labour markets expert, to a special e...

How I went hungry to raise awareness of poverty this week

How I went hungry to raise awareness of poverty this week TGF!! The phrase has a whole new meaning to me this week… for five days I haven’t spent more than £1 a day on all my food and drink. “Why, ...

Meet Tom Mower: the extraordinary story of a volunteer-aholic

Meet Tom Mower: the extraordinary story of a volunteer-aholic Tom Mower, 22, from Leeds is down to the final five of a global competition run by GVI to volunteer around the world for a year. Over t...

Volunteering not only changed my life - it saved it

Volunteering not only changed my life - it saved it Joanna Mayes, 20, recently won the 2012 vInspired National Award for Bringing Communities Together. Here, Joanna shares her powerful and inspirat...

Impact conference 2012 feedback

Impact conference 2012 feedback Last weekend I was fortunate to attend IMPACT 2012, the national conference on student volunteering mentioned last week in our pre-IMPACT blog. The weekend saw the c...

We are supporting Student Volunteering Week 2012

We are supporting Student Volunteering Week 2012 Today marks the beginning of Student Volunteering Week 2012, organised by Volunteering England. Currently in its 11th year, the campaign’s theme is ...

Eddie Kadi: I'm so excited to be asked back to the vInspired National Awards

Eddie Kadi: I'm so excited to be asked back to the vInspired National Awards Comedian Eddie Kadi will be hosting the vInspired National Awards alongside Emma Willis at the BFI IMAX this Thursday 22...

Have a good week!

Have a good week! This week, we’re calling on everyone to get involved in a global celebration of good! Here at vInspired, we're delighted to be supporting A Good Week,a not-for-profit initiative, ...

Pursuing Passions

Pursuing Passions Career Feeds Your Family ... Volunteering Feeds Your Soul If you had asked the average five-year-old of my generation what they wanted to be when they grew up, chances are they wo...

Keeping pupils app-y with ICT

Keeping pupils app-y with ICT [caption id="attachment_3989" align="alignright" width="300" caption="vinspired apps: Helping young people find volunteering opportunities"][/caption] It would be (qui...

Squishing Raspberries

Squishing Raspberries I will always remember a couple of things my dad used to say to me as a child while we picked raspberries: "If you squish a raspberry, you had better eat it" and "will you sto...

New Year honour for vinspired National Award winner Kirsty

New Year honour for vinspired National Award winner Kirsty [caption id="attachment_4221" align="alignright" width="165" caption="Kirsty receiving her vinspired National Award from Leigh Francis (ak...

Volunteering with young people has helped me fulfil my career ambitions

Volunteering with young people has helped me fulfil my career ambitions Rachael Roberts, 25, from Colwyn Bay, began volunteering last year to get experience for a Speech Therapy Career. Rachael exp...

Here's your chance to be a Ministry of Sound DJ for the day!

Here's your chance to be a Ministry of Sound DJ for the day! Update: The deadline for entries for the prize draw has now passed. Thanks to everyone who submitted their awesome ideas! Calling all bu...

Why becoming a Team v leader could be the best thing you ever do

Why becoming a Team v leader could be the best thing you ever do Are you up for a challenge? Team v are on the lookout for sparky, energetic young people - ready to change the world one campaign at...

Keen To Be Green at vInspired

Keen To Be Green at vInspired Organisations up and down the country and indeed all over the world are gradually stepping up to the Green mark and recognising the importance of promoting an environm...

We're teaming up with 4Music to get more young people volunteering

We're teaming up with 4Music to get more young people volunteering Q:What do Lawson, Goldierocks,Wretch 32 and Rickie and Melvin have in common? A:They’re doing good things with vInspired and 4Musi...

vInspired wins Queen’s Diamond Jubilee Volunteering Award

vInspired wins Queen’s Diamond Jubilee Volunteering Award vInspired has been presented with the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee Volunteering Award 2012, in recognition of its work inspiring young people to...

Igniter - empowering young people through crowdfunding

Igniter - empowering young people through crowdfunding We’re very excited to announce the launch of a new platform, Igniter, empowering young people to raise funds from members of the public to run...

Beta Generation

Beta Generation vInspired identifies a new generation of social entrepreneurs as research reveals the economic climate is a stimulant for change amongst 16-21 year olds. Our new study has uncovered...

An open letter to the Rt Hon Michael Gove MP regarding youth policy

An open letter to the Rt Hon Michael Gove MP regarding youth policy vInspired have joined over 20 youth organisations to challenge Michael Gove’s recent comments that youth policy is priority for l...

vInspired auctions One Direction self-portraits

vInspired auctions One Direction self-portraits We are auctioning off portraits drawn by four members of everyone’s favourite boy band, One Direction, to raise money for young volunteers. Unfortuna...

Announcing the vInspired Schools campaign

Announcing the vInspired Schools campaign vInspired are set to recruit and engage secondary schools and their students across the country. There is a huge opportunity to engage young people within ...

Give and get

Give and get Christmas is a time of giving, through gifts of goods, money or time. But not all good deeds are purely altruistic. Does it matter if people help causes and communities because of enli...

You’ll wish you’d supported us when you retire, Mr Osborne

You’ll wish you’d supported us when you retire, Mr Osborne One of our prized Youth Advisory Board, Amy Benn, is wondering what we expect to happen in the long term if the Government budget doesn’t ...

Task Squad in the running for the Google Global Impact Challenge

Task Squad in the running for the Google Global Impact Challenge We’re delighted to announce that our new youth employment platform Task Squad is a finalist in the Google Global Impact Challenge. T...

Knee-jerk reactions to work placement initiatives are not helpful

Knee-jerk reactions to work placement initiatives are not helpful I can’t help but feel sorry for Tesco and the other big retailers who find themselves on the receiving end of some recent outlandis...

How to become a Youth Social Action Ambassador

How to become a Youth Social Action Ambassador Our volunteers have been hanging out with Royalty. vInspired's Cashpoint superstar, Prince Ahmed, became our Youth Social Action Ambassador for a day....

A day in the life of a business hot shot

A day in the life of a business hot shot How do you start a business career without a degree? Our friends over at EY are all about community. Finance is their bag. So they literally help school lea...

Cash to Get Trashed: Grab £500 to put sustainability on the catwalk

Cash to Get Trashed: Grab £500 to put sustainability on the catwalk Fashion is exciting, individual, vibrant. And, more recently, cheap. But while the rise of fast fashion bags us bargains on the h...

5 easy ways to give to charity this Christmas

5 easy ways to give to charity this Christmas Donating clothes to those in need this Christmas? As part vInspired's Get Trashed campaign, we've been checking out the easiest ways you can help the p...

Turn off your dignity and turn on your microphones.

Turn off your dignity and turn on your microphones. Happy Friday peoples. And what a welcome Friday it is. It’s been one heck of a week for JJ here. Seriously, what with 14 days of snow, 3 days of ...

After vinvolved: vinspired and the vinspired awards for voluntary organisations

After vinvolved: vinspired and the vinspired awards for voluntary organisations Sadly, after lots of amazing work, the vinvolved teams programme is coming to a close, so we've been getting lots of ...

vinspired National Awards: A night to remember

vinspired National Awards: A night to remember Hi, it's me again, Rochelle - online volunteer reporting back from the vinspired National Awards. You read my blog in advance, saw my Facebook updates...

Top 10 outdoor volunteering experiences

Top 10 outdoor volunteering experiences Summer is finally upon us and with the weather hotting up, now is a great time to get outside, roll up those sleeves and do some good! Here are some splendid...

Youth volunteering: A rapid review of the recent evidence

Youth volunteering: A rapid review of the recent evidence [caption id="attachment_692" align="alignleft" width="380" caption="Rui Jorge Octavio gained valuable experience after volunteering to set ...

BAD Jemima!

BAD Jemima! Right folks, It got to Friday afternoon last week and I was on my merry way to sunny Wales in time to see Mam for the godforsaken Mothers Day. I was trundling along on the < ... The ...

A new anatomy of youth

A new anatomy of youth Last week we launched of our new research report, An Anatomy of Youth, in partnership with Demos. Over the past year Demos have analysed the attitudes of 16 – 25 year olds an...

Fridayyyy!

Fridayyyy! Agh what a beeeeautiful sunny day it is and what a beautiful sunny weekend it is set to be! I am uber excited about potential park picnic whilst wearing floaty summer dress, even if I am...

Youth unemployment through the lens of volunteering

Youth unemployment through the lens of volunteering Last week’s unemployment figures revealed another depressing rise in the number of young people that are out of work. With many v-funded projects...

Blogging Tips: Enhance Your Volunteering Journey

Read Other Blogs Keep an eye on blogs that cover your area of interest. Regularly reading them can offer insights. Analyze blogs you enjoy and consider why—be it the writing style or subject matter...

Team v Leaders: Opening New Worlds of Imagination for Children

Team v leaders are transforming the way children perceive literature, sparking imagination and fostering literacy through engaging storytelling workshops. As a passionate advocate for children’s li...

Anatomy of Youth: Belonging to Communities - The Disconnect

The “Anatomy of Youth” report left me feeling quite overwhelmed, which is appropriate given that it highlights the complex challenges young people face today. Individuals aged 16-25 encounter as ma...

12 Days of Christmas: Spreading Joy Through Volunteering

Want to do some good this Christmas? Our 12 Days of Christmas campaign is your chance to help spread peace and joy over the festive season. Christmas is a time for relaxation and enjoying the compa...

Why “Gang” Culture is Something to be Encouraged, Not Dismantled

Our tendency to form groups has been a part of human nature for millions of years and continues today. Consider social media platforms like Facebook, which brings together over 800 million users, f...

Sort Out Your Priorities, Mr Gove

Young people from 15 youth organizations, including Vinspired, have united to express their concern over the comments made by the Education Secretary, suggesting that youth policy is not a priority...

A Brave New “Pro-Social” World

We’re always hearing about ‘anti-social behavior,’ but what about its antithesis—pro-social behavior? This concept, which might sound like something out of ‘Brave New World,’ simply means volunteer...

Student Impact Conference 2012

This weekend, Oxford Brookes University hosts the Impact 2012, a national conference on student volunteering and social action, supported by Student Hubs. The conference is designed for anyone invo...

Re-thinking Negative Perceptions of Young People

Working as a PR Manager at Vinspired allows me to highlight the achievements of young people across the country. Despite the privilege of sharing these inspiring stories, it often seems like an uph...

National Citizen Service “Summer of a Lifetime” Pilot

Vinspired and the Dame Kelly Holmes Legacy Trust, in collaboration with local partners, are set to deliver the National Citizen Service (NCS) “Summer of a Lifetime” pilot. This initiative aims to e...

History Jam: Behind the Scenes!

History Jam was a pioneering event orchestrated by a dedicated team of volunteers in collaboration with Choice FM. This initiative was part of Vinspired’s ‘I Have a Choice’ match fund project, aime...

Measuring the Impossible? Understanding the Long-Term Impact of Volunteering

How do you measure the long-term impacts of volunteering? This is a question we’ve spent considerable time debating over the last six months. Today, we’re delighted to launch a new research report ...

Summer of Give: Inspiring Individuals and iPhone Apps - 2010, What a Year!

With 2010 drawing to a close, it’s time to reflect on the past twelve months and look forward to a brand new decade. While I’d love to share everything we’ve been up to at Vinspired, I’ll focus on ...

Man United Fans – The Most Kind Hearted In The Country?

It’s time to celebrate the first batch of Make the Team winners! Eleven lucky fans have won tickets to see their favorite Premier League clubs live. And the excitement doesn’t stop there—we have mo...

Seasons Greetings from Vinspired

As 2010 draws to a close, we reflect on a remarkable year filled with achievements alongside our partners. In this final year of delivering the recommendations of the Russell Commission, we have re...

Guerrillas in the Mist

Guerrillas in the Mist When I was a kid, one of my favourite fairy tales was The Elves and the Shoemaker. An impoverished shoemaker is helped out by a couple of elves, who secretly make shoes for h...

Empowering Young People: A Journey with Team v

Discover how young leaders are transforming communities through Vinspired’s flagship programme, Team v. What is Team v? Team v is a dynamic leadership and social action programme designed to inspir...

Signing-off at Last

Having spent the past four months visiting the Jobcentre once every fortnight, I’ve finally signed off and achieved an elusive paid internship here at Vinspired. After leaving university this summe...

New Year, Fresh Opportunity for Young People to Shine

As we step into 2012, it’s time to reflect on the opportunities and challenges ahead for young people. Last year was a pivotal time for youth across the UK and beyond, marked by an array of signifi...

A Rambling New Year’s Revolution

Embrace the New Year with Environmental Volunteering As we usher in a new year, it’s the perfect opportunity to rejuvenate our spirits and engage in meaningful activities. If you’re someone who spe...

Digital Fatigue? Volunteering Could Be the Cure

Most of us would agree that the internet is a societal force for good. It has created previously unrealized global communities and brought the world to our fingertips in an astonishing way. For bot...

Wildlife Volunteering: A Day in the Life of a Commuter Commuting into London from the picturesque Chilterns offers more than just a scenic view; it highlights the vibrant wildlife that calls this a...

The Lazy Youth? Rethinking Perceptions of Young Volunteers

Boris Johnson recently suggested that young unemployed Britons “lack energy and appetite” compared to their foreign counterparts. This statement raises a question: Is a hard worker born or nurtured...

Team v Update: Combating Loneliness and Isolation

Welcome to Team v Campaign two! It’s an exciting phase as we continue our journey in combating critical issues such as food poverty and loneliness. Our first campaign focused on tackling food pover...

Recognising the Inspiring Contribution of Young Volunteers

For three days, a beautiful studio in Regent’s Park was buzzing with inspiring young people sharing their stories over pizza. This weekend, I had the immense pleasure of meeting the vInspired Natio...

The Summer of Give & More!

Hello everyone, how’s it going? This week has been bustling for all of us at Vinspired, but we’re thrilled with the exciting developments we have to share! Although I took a short break to Wales, t...

Support the Next Generation of Retail Ready People!

Retail Ready People is an innovative program designed for young people, aged 16-25, to gain practical experience in retail by setting up and managing a high street shop. This initiative, in partner...

Prime Minister Backs Our Reverse Riots Campaign

The last couple of weeks have seen an incredible response to the Reverse Riots campaign, with nearly 3,000 young people and 25 celebrities taking a stand against negativity towards Britain’s youth....

Eddie Kadi Returns as Host of the vInspired National Awards Alongside Emma Willis!

Comedian Eddie Kadi will once again host the prestigious vInspired National Awards, this time alongside Emma Willis, at the BFI IMAX on Thursday, 22 March. Eddie shares his excitement about returni...

I’ve Learnt That Helping Others Through Volunteering Can Also Help Yourself

Volunteering is a powerful tool for personal development and community impact. Through my experience with READ International, I’ve discovered that helping others can profoundly benefit oneself. Thi...

Rub Shoulders with the Stars as Our Showbiz Correspondent!

Do you dream of mingling with celebrities like Tinchy Stryder at a glamorous VIP launch party? Here’s your chance to shine as our showbiz correspondent! How to Enter Register for our exclusive comp...

vInspired and Sidekick Studios Join Forces to Empower London Youth with Flexible Work Opportunities

vInspired has been collaborating closely with Sidekick Studios on their innovative initiative, Sidekick Schools. Together, we have been working diligently to develop and test a cutting-edge platfor...

vInspired Live Launches the #ChangeSomething Campaign

One in three young Brits aged 16–21 believe the best way to make a difference to a campaign they care about is online and through social media, rather than protesting on the streets. Our research s...

Vinspired’s Response to the Positive for Youth Consultation

In July, the Department for Education released 20 comprehensive discussion papers under the “Positive for Youth” initiative. Vinspired, eager to contribute, collaborated with NCVYS to produce a coo...

What Project Would You Set Up to Make the World a Better Place?

Are you passionate about volunteering projects and dreaming of launching your own community service projects to make the world a better place? Let’s explore some inspiring ideas from Vinspired’s te...

Experience the Magic of Festival Volunteering with Oxfam Dive into a Summer of Impact and Excitement Are you ready to make a difference this summer? Oxfam recruits over 5,000 volunteers annually to...

Join This Year’s Biggest Youth Movement - Be Part of #ReverseRiots!

Join this year’s most impactful youth movement, and take a stand with the #ReverseRiots campaign. This initiative aims to reshape the perception of young people in Britain by highlighting their pos...

Round 2 of Team v Recruitment Opens! Are you passionate about making a difference and dreaming of changing the world? If you’re aged 18-25 and living in England, this might be your moment. Team v i...

Meet July’s Volunteer of the Month: Joseph Roncarelli

Joseph Roncarelli, a 19-year-old from London, is celebrated as Vinspired’s Volunteer of the Month for July. Joseph began his volunteering journey four and a half months ago at Camley Street Natural...

Junction49: Innovating Solutions to Youth Mental Health Issues Empowering Youth through Social Action Our online platform, Junction49, empowers young people to initiate their own social action proj...

Unforgettable Summer Experiences: International Volunteering

Summer holidays are synonymous with traveling, and when you combine travel with volunteering, you create memorable experiences that check all the boxes: exploring, meeting people, and making a diff...

Are You Retail Ready? Transform the High Street with Us!

Welcome to an exciting opportunity to rejuvenate the high street through our latest initiative, Retail Ready People. This program is specifically designed for young individuals aged 16-25 who are e...

Meeting Three World-Class Athletes

Never a dull moment here at Vinspired. Last week, I had the pleasure of meeting not one but three world-class athletes: World In-line Skating Champion, Jenna Downing; former European and Commonweal...

Beta Generation – How Are Young People Surfing the Crisis? Vinspired has relaunched its insightful report on the “Beta Generation,” in collaboration with global law firm Herbert Smith Freehills and...

Get Trashed: Saving 10,000 Items of Clothing from Landfill

Get Trashed, a campaign by Do Something UK, is taking a stand against the fast-fashion epidemic exacerbated by celebrity culture. Each year, this trend drives thousands of clothing items to landfil...

vInspired Schools at Studio Schools Trust Conference 2013

The vInspired Schools team showcased their innovative program at the Studio Schools Trust Conference in Salford, November 2013. This event provided a platform to discuss the integration of social a...

Vinspired Appoints New Chief Executive

We are excited to announce the appointment of Moira Swinbank OBE as the new Chief Executive of Vinspired. She succeeds Terry Ryall, the founding CEO, who will step down at the end of March 2014 to ...

The Reverse Riots Message Reaches the Top - Prime Minister Supports Positivity Campaign!

The last few weeks have witnessed an incredible response to the Reverse Riots campaign, with nearly 3,000 young participants and 25 celebrities advocating against the negative stereotypes of Britai...

Joining Our Youth Advisory Board Could Be a Life-Changing Experience

Joining our Youth Advisory Board (YAB) is more than just a volunteering opportunity—it’s a chance to develop key skills in fundraising, teamwork, and creativity. As part of Vinspired’s Youth Adviso...

What The Dark Knight and Volunteers Have in Common

Apart from being yet another great addition to the already successful franchise, there are some timely moral questions within The Dark Knight Rises. What does the film also tell us about the nature...

Help Homeless People with These 3 Ideas

The issue of homelessness is more prevalent than ever, with an estimated 500,000 individuals in the UK lacking stable housing, including 90,000 young people under 18. While these figures are daunti...

7 Ways to Prepare for Festival Volunteering

Heading off to a festival could be the highlight of your summer. Festival volunteering is a fantastic way to bypass the hefty entry fee while enjoying the experience. Not only do you get free entry...

Volunteer of the Month – April 2014

Volunteer of the Month: Celebrating April’s Achiever Introducing April’s Volunteer of the Month: an inspiring force making waves in the community. Elizabeth Beale has been recognized for her outsta...

Routes to Roots: Risk Your Life. Save Another.

Sharing Volunteers’ Stories of Survival Volunteering is a powerful way to make a difference in the world. Countless individuals travel across the globe, dedicating time and effort to support others...

vInspired Calls on Political Leaders to Deliver Youth Pledges on Twitter

Voter turnout among 18-24 year-olds is declining, yet young people express a strong desire to play an active role in their communities and beyond. They seek a different kind of engagement from poli...

Voting 101: Your Ultimate Guide to the Next Election

Swing the Vote: Voting 101 In the last general election, only 44% of 18-24-year-olds turned out to vote. We understand that it requires motivation to find your polling station, make the trip, and c...

Terry Ryall Responds to David Cameron’s Big Society Relaunch Last week, I had the opportunity to hear firsthand why Prime Minister David Cameron is recommitting to his Big Society initiative. Despi...

Win a £50 Amazon Voucher with Youthnet!

Discover how you can win a £50 Amazon Voucher simply by sharing your thoughts on how young people use the internet across Europe. Vinspired, in collaboration with European partners, invites young p...

Understanding the Long-Term Social Value of Volunteering

Volunteering is a pivotal element in the Government’s vision for a ‘Big Society’, where communities unite to address local challenges. Amidst public spending cuts, proving the impact of volunteerin...

Volunteer of the Month - May 2014

Amira Haque: This Month’s Outstanding Volunteer Amira Haque has been recognized as May 2014’s Volunteer of the Month for her exceptional contributions to the Vinspired community. She was nominated ...

Swing the Vote - The Ins and Outs of the General Election

Understanding the Voting Process Do you know exactly how voting works? You might have read our Voting 101 - your ultimate guide to voting in the next election and understand the importance of votin...

Swing the Vote: How Do I Vote? Voting is a crucial part of civic engagement, and understanding the process is essential. If you’re ready to make your voice heard, here’s a comprehensive guide to ge...

A Programme for the NEET Generation Empowering Young People with Skills for the Future In today’s fast-paced world, programs that deliver essential soft skills to young people are crucial. The term...

7 Training Tips for Running a Half-Marathon

Thinking About Taking the Plunge and Signing Up for a Half-Marathon? 13.1 miles can be intimidating but is by no means impossible. We salute your courage. We’re looking for participants who want to...

Volunteering Will Make or Break You – An Open Letter to Young Entrepreneurs

Volunteering offers a transformative journey, especially for young entrepreneurs. It’s not just about giving back, but about gaining the skills that pay off in career and personal growth. Don’t Sto...

10 Opportunities to Take Charge of Your Summer

The summer holidays are the holy grail of the academic year—no teachers, no homework (until the night before term starts again), and no early mornings to disrupt your peace. Why not seize this free...

Joe's SOG blog from Relentless Boardmasters 2010

Joe's SOG blog from Relentless Boardmasters 2010 v is at yet another super festival this Summer, but this time it ain't Indie bands and grassy terrain, it's baord shorts and half pipes at Relentles...

BBC Star Jo Whiley Opens Exciting Youth Space

Thanks to a £500,000 investment from the SITA Trust, the local community interest company, Make a Difference, has transformed a former bus station into a vibrant, ultra-modern youth and community h...

Grain of Sand

Imagine lying on the world’s finest beach with a cold drink and a book. Beneath you, four million grains of sand support your relaxation. You might not notice a single missing grain, yet together, ...

Q&A with DMC World Champion DJ Switch From winning the World DMC DJ Championships for the third time to volunteering with Vinspired’s Summer of Give, DJ Switch is a man of many talents! We caught u...

A New Year and A New You!

Are you exhausted from answering “How was your Christmas?” yet? While the sentiment is appreciated, repeating “nice,” “relaxing,” or “lovely” can become monotonous. It’s time to invigorate the conv...

Degree or Not Degree? Exploring Your Path to Success

With every ‘give up’ there’s a story, with every dropout, a dream broken, and with every broken dream, a life altered. This year’s Youth Policy Summit revealed chilling accounts of teenagers facing...

Team v Campaign Two: Combating Loneliness Together

It’s been an inspiring week for one of our most impactful programs at Vinspired. Introducing Team v In 2011, we launched Team v to empower young volunteers aged 18-25 to create change through focus...

Give Your Career a Boost with National Apprenticeship Week

Today marks the beginning of National Apprenticeship Week 2012, a celebration of UK apprenticeships and their positive impact on individuals and businesses. Apprenticeships offer a unique opportuni...

The Good Childhood Report: Food for Thought

The Good Childhood Report 2012, published by The Children’s Society, offers valuable insights into factors affecting children’s well-being. It emphasizes the importance of family harmony and stabil...

Igniter Shortlisted for Nominet Internet Award

Igniter, our innovative crowdfunding platform designed for young people, has been recognized for its exceptional contribution by being shortlisted for the Nominet Internet Awards 2013. This accolad...

Tony’s SOG Blog from V Festival 2010

At the vibrant V Festival in Chelmsford, I embarked on my first journey volunteering with the BigVBus. Initially unsure about my role as a promotional volunteer, I quickly discovered that it’s a fa...

1+1=3: Big Change Through Small Actions

Cutting your carbon footprint, wearing a seatbelt, and jogging; aside from their impact on our environment, do you notice any similarities? I didn’t until the other day, when the Vinspired team enj...

An Opportunity to Form a Student-Led Volunteering Network

Some may argue there’s nothing unique about student volunteers, but a recent study reveals otherwise. According to research, 63% of university students have formally volunteered since starting thei...

Unemployed Young People Aren’t a “Stubborn Underclass”, They Just Need a Break

At a time of record levels of youth unemployment, Vinspired has been collaborating with experts at the think-tank Demos to explore solutions for the increasing number of young people not in educati...

Volunteer of the Month - June 2014 Introducing Our Volunteer of the Month for June Meet our Volunteer of the Month, Aishah Ayoub. Nominated by the Head of Student Development from Newall Green Sixt...

Routes to Roots: Celebrating Migration

When we embarked on our Routes to Roots campaign, we tasked our Team v Leaders with the challenge of uncovering and celebrating migration stories within their communities. Through this initiative, ...

Volunteer of the Month - August 2014

Meet Our Inspiring Volunteer Danielle Bezzina has been selected as the Volunteer of the Month for August 2014. Our youth blogger recently caught up with her to discover what makes her stand out in ...

8 Inspiring Quotes for Volunteers Who Make a Difference

Being able to see the positive impact you make is one of the reasons people choose to volunteer. Volunteering can, at times, be highly challenging and a real test of character. When things don’t wo...

The Best Career Advice I Ever Received: Volunteer

Volunteering is more than just a noble act; it is a transformative journey that can significantly impact your career development. Whether you’re a student pondering your future or someone seeking a...

How Volunteering Transformed My Life: A Personal Journey

Participating in volunteering activities not only allows you to give back but also opens doors to personal growth and development. Two years ago, I embarked on an incredible journey with the Young ...

5 Ways to Get the Most Out of Your Volunteering

Before diving into a volunteering opportunity, it’s often useful to take a quick step back and think about how your efforts are going to be worthwhile and rewarding. Here are our 5 key things to co...

3 Steps to Finding Your Life’s Passion Through Volunteering

Finding your life’s passion and pursuing a career you truly love is a journey—one that volunteering can significantly enrich. Whether you’ve just received your GCSE or A-Level results, or have rece...

Download FREE Music from V.Fairsharemusic.com Get ready to discover how music and volunteering can make a powerful combination! At Vinspired, we’re excited to partner with Fairsharemusic.com, a uni...

The Anatomy of Youth: The ‘Lost Generation’

In today’s rapidly evolving economic landscape, young volunteers face unprecedented challenges. The concept of a “Lost Generation” has become pivotal to understanding the obstacles that young peopl...

Want an Education in the “School of Life”? Try Volunteering

Recent statistics from UCAS reveal that applications to universities have decreased by almost 9% nationwide and nearly 10% in England. This decline represents approximately 45,000 individuals who h...

19 Tips for Applying for Your First Job

Starting your first job application can be a daunting task, but with the right guidance, it becomes a rewarding experience. Whether you are finishing college or sixth form, stepping into the profes...

Starting Your New Job: 10 Steps to Getting a Job

The day has arrived! You’ve hopefully had a good rest, and now it’s time to excel in your new role. Like many starting a new job, you might feel nervous. Remember, out of all the candidates, you we...

Preparing for a New Job: 10 Essential Steps

Congratulations on landing your new job! Transitioning into a new role can be both exciting and daunting. Here, we delve into the essential steps you need to take to ensure a smooth start. 1. Expre...

Learn From Rejection: 10 Steps to Getting a Job

Rejection is an inevitable part of the job search process. It’s a feeling many of us know all too well – that moment when the phone call or email comes, and it’s not the news you hoped for. But don...

How Enterprise Can Empower Young People to Tackle Youth Unemployment

Youth unemployment is a national crisis, and the need for innovative solutions has never been more urgent. With financial constraints tightening and limited government incentives, our current leade...

Volunteering SOS: Got an Hour to Spare to Break a World Record This Weekend?

Are you passionate about volunteering in London for the environment and looking to make a tangible impact? This weekend, the call is out for volunteers in the bustling city of London, and your part...

Creating a Volunteering Habit that Sticks

Vinspired aims to get young people excited about volunteering as early as possible. Our lifelong habits are developed in our formative years, and volunteering should be one of them. This article ex...

Letter to the Prime Minister: Supporting Community Resilience After the Riots

Date: 12th August 2011 Rt Hon Prime Minister 10 Downing Street London SW1A 2AA Dear Prime Minister, In the aftermath of the recent riots and public disturbances in London and other cities, we, as l...

5 Winning Formulas for Vinspired Cashpoint Funded Projects

Empower Your Community with Vinspired Cashpoint The Vinspired Cashpoint offers up to £500 in funding to young individuals eager to set up local projects that bolster community support. Here, we sha...

3 Ways You Can Make a Difference to Nearly 3 Million People

We’ve just celebrated the graduation of 96 Team v Leaders. These exceptional young individuals have collectively impacted almost three million people this year. Impressive, right? It only takes one...

Star Awards Provider - Runshaw College

Runshaw College: Leading the Way in Volunteering Excellence Runshaw College has been honored as our inaugural Star Awards Provider! These organizations actively promote and validate the vInspired A...

5 Things Volunteering in Football Has Taught Me Volunteering in football can be a transformative experience, as demonstrated by the establishment of the Abbey Lion Cubs FC. Through this initiative,...

Our Team v Leaders Have Done It Again! The Launch of Campaign 3

In 2011, Vinspired established a dynamic network called Team v, designed to empower young volunteers aged 18 to 25 to make a significant impact through strategic campaigns. This initiative harnesse...

Our Amazing Young Leaders Graduate in Style!

Yesterday, young volunteers from Aberdeen, Hull, and London celebrated their achievements as they completed their two-year journey in the London 2012 Young Leaders Programme. This inspiring event t...

Volunteer of the Month - May 2016

We’re excited to announce this month’s superstar volunteer! Nominated for his outstanding volunteering efforts, this individual has showcased remarkable skills in teamwork and collaboration, resili...

Make a Difference with Pride

In the wake of the tragic shootings in Orlando, Florida, people across the globe have united to honor the lives of those affected within the LGBTQ+ community. Here in London, thousands gathered on ...

10 Ways to Fundraise with a Friend

Volunteering isn’t just about making a difference; it’s also about having fun. Whether you’re singing along to your favorite tunes or engaging in a community fundraising event, making a positive im...

Reverse Riots: Transforming Symbols of Unrest into Messages of Hope

On the anniversary of the previous year’s riots, our Chief Operating Officer reflects on the positive movement that has swept away negativity through our #ReverseRiots campaign… The lighting of the...

London 2012: Harnessing the Energy of Volunteers is Key to Legacy

As the London 2012 Olympics concluded, the spotlight shone on the volunteers who made the event a resounding success. This article explores the pivotal role of volunteers and the potential for a la...

3 Meaningful Donations to Create Positive Change This Giving Tuesday

Giving Tuesday is upon us, providing a powerful counter-narrative to the consumptive frenzy of Black Friday. As we transition from the chaos of “grab and take,” let’s embrace the spirit of giving. ...

Give Your Time to a Great Cause This Christmas

We don’t just promote volunteering at Vinspired, we give up our time for good causes too! In the spirit of giving, why not explore some volunteer opportunities for Christmas and make a difference t...

Why Tell Your Story?

I’ve got writer’s block, and I’m not even a writer… For this month’s innovation lunch, our guest speaker was an influential figure in the youth space. I’ve seen him speak a few times and have alway...

#wewillgather: Making Local Action Easywewillgather is a tool designed to simplify community engagement. Funded by NESTA, it enables people to volunteer for community projects. Simply tweet with the hashtag #wewillgather, the word ‘help’, and a postcode, and watch the website create a page for your initiative. People can then join using their Facebook or Twitter accounts.

We’re thrilled to collaborate with Dan Thompson on his latest initiative, #wewillgather. Known for orchestrating projects like #riotcleanup, Dan focuses on community engagement and revitalization. ...

Generation Enterprise: Rising UK Youth Taking the Lead Times are tough. The job market is tight. Thousands of young people at home feel stuck, wasting away their potential. For years, this narrativ...

Volunteer of the Month - July 2015

Celebrating Outstanding Contributions to Civic Engagement and Community Support This month’s award-winning volunteer is a remarkable student volunteer making waves in her community. Nominated by he...

5 Lessons We’ve Learned About Volunteering from Team V

Last week, we celebrated the incredible journey of Team V’s final year group. The class of 2015, alongside leaders from previous years, gathered to honor the impactful legacy they’ve created in the...

Getting Ready for Launch: An Update on Retail Ready People’s Pop-Up Shops

Our second set of pop-up shops will be opening to the public imminently. The RRP Leeds and RRP Rochdale stores will be open from May 11 until June 9. These shops are run by teams of volunteers aged...

vInspired’s Youth Employment Project Triumphs in Google Global Impact Challenge

Innovative Micro-Work Platform Redefines Temp Agency Models The vInspired youth employment project wins £100,000 in Google Global Impact Challenge, marking a significant milestone in bridging gaps ...

What to do if you get a bad Christmas present – The Foolproof Guide We’ve all been there. It’s the festive season, a time for giving and goodwill. But sometimes, amidst the twinkling lights and che...

Volunteer of the Month - April 2015

Meet April’s Volunteer of the Month Abigail has been volunteering at the Martin Mere Wetland Centre since June 2013, achieving her v10, v50, and v100 awards. Our roving reporter recently spoke to h...

6 Financial Issues That Will Get You Voting in the 2015 Election

The results are in: young people are ready to vote if politicians promise to secure their financial futures. In our survey of 1000 young people, we discovered that while issues like the future of t...

Generation Change: Empowering Youth Through Social Action

Today marks the launch of Generation Change, a groundbreaking coalition of specialist youth social action organizations in the UK, backed by the Cabinet Office. This initiative aims to amplify the ...

Is Raising the School Leavers Age the Answer to the Country’s NEET Problem?

Is raising the school leavers age the answer to the country’s NEET problem? Is keeping young people at school a good idea? Shouldn’t we be asking why they choose to leave at a young age instead? Th...

Moving on from the YAB, Next Stop: British Youth Council!

It’s almost that time of year again—and I’m not talking about a holiday to somewhere sunny and exotic. As part of Vinspired’s current Youth Advisory Board (YAB), the time has come to hand over the ...

5 Results Day Myths That Will Make You Feel Better About Your Exam Results

This is it. After months of revision cramming, extra lessons, and endless exam timetables, results day is here. Whether you were thrilled or disappointed this morning, don’t worry. Whatever happens...

Volunteer of the Month - October 2015

This month’s Volunteer of the Month award goes to an exceptional individual who has made a significant impact through their creativity and dedication. Meet Our Volunteer of the Month Flo Friis was ...

Tinchy Stryder Calls for Nominations for the Vinspired National Awards

Musician Tinchy Stryder has opened the floor for nominations for the Vinspired National Awards, emphasizing the importance of recognizing the positive contributions of young people. He urges the pu...

Doing Something Important: The Impact of Volunteering in Europe

Volunteering offers a unique opportunity to make a significant impact on society. Recently, during a trip to Warsaw, we visited the Foundation for Polish-German Reconciliation, established in 1992 ...

4 Amazing Community Projects to Inspire You

Are you ready to make a positive impact in your local community? Imagine receiving £500 with no strings attached to start your own volunteering project. With Vinspired’s Cashpoint, that’s exactly w...

5 Top Fashion Statements Made by Young People in Manchester

Discover the Trendsetting Styles of Manchester’s Youth Manchester, the birthplace of iconic bands like Oasis and home to legendary sports teams such as Manchester United, is also a hub for fashion-...

Engaging the Youth: Why We’re Bringing Politics to YouTube Bridging the Gap for Young Voters Understanding why young people often refrain from voting is crucial. Many feel their vote won’t impact i...

Cost of Living – A Crisis?

The phrase “cost of living” is being tossed around frequently, especially as elections draw near. But what does it really mean? Is it truly a crisis? This article delves into the complexities of th...

Volunteer of the Month: Celebrating Outstanding Contributions

June’s Spotlight: Rand’s Artful Children Project Rand, our esteemed Volunteer of the Month for June, has made remarkable strides with her project, Artful Children. This initiative provided a creati...

How to Boss an Interview: 10 Steps to Getting a Job

10 Steps to Getting a Job Prepare, Prepare, Prepare! You might think it’s a lot of extra work, but once you’ve secured an interview, it’s time to make that effort count. As one seasoned professiona...

Is ‘Working Class Gong’ Good Enough for Voluntary Work?

The Prime Minister has announced plans to revive the British Empire Medal (BEM), often referred to as the ‘working class gong’. This initiative aims to honor those engaged in voluntary community wo...

Highlighting Student Volunteer Achievements at Kingston University During this week, universities across the nation have the opportunity to showcase the impressive contributions of their students. ...

vInspired Cashpoint Teams Up with Young Scot to Offer Points for Projects

Volunteering offers numerous benefits, particularly for young people aged 14 to 25. At vInspired, we understand the value of empowering youth through volunteering opportunities that not only enrich...

Endeavour to be Beta in 2014 Embracing the Digital Revolution In 2014, Vinspired embarked on a journey to revolutionize its digital presence. As our community and programs continue to evolve, so mu...

Swing the Vote: Young People Care About Being Heard at Electionsswingthevote

At Vinspired, we believe that young people are far from apathetic. Every day, we engage with thousands of motivated and passionate young individuals who are tackling crucial issues in communities a...

Going BETA: 5 Steps to a User-Centric Website

How Long Will Someone Spend Determining Whether a Web Page is the One They Need? Expert views vary, but the consensus is that it’s not very long—typically around 10-20 seconds. Young people, in par...

CEO Terry Ryall: “Signposting Opportunities is Not Enough”

The announcement by the Government to bring volunteering into the spotlight is a welcome change, as highlighted by vInspired’s CEO. However, signposting opportunities is not enough. The focus must ...

Community Fundraising: Back to Basics Community fundraising is an essential strategy for supporting the impactful work of Vinspired, particularly in empowering our youth through volunteering. The Y...

Igniting Passion and Kickstarting Sustainable Social Action

Our latest evaluation of Cashpoint tells a compelling story of youth-driven change. We’ve uncovered the transformation young people are creating in their communities, and the significant personal g...

Kickstart Your Marketing Career with Vinspired

Dreaming of Becoming a Marketing Guru? Do you envision yourself as a high-flying marketing professional? Look no further. We’re here to help you embark on your journey toward a successful career in...

A Night to Remember – The vInspired National Awards 2013

We arrived, we conquered, and we left a trail of joy and party streamers all over London Town. Relive the unforgettable memories online and experience them again and again. An Unforgettable Celebra...

Discover Your Potential: 10 Steps to Finding a Job

Searching for a job can often feel overwhelming, especially when you’re unsure where to start. The job market is vast and diverse, but with the right guidance and resources, you can find a fulfilli...

Good For Nothing: v’s New National Advertising Campaign

Vinspired is redefining perceptions of youth with its groundbreaking initiative, “Good For Nothing.” This National Advertising Campaign highlights the impactful contributions of young volunteers, c...

Good For Nothing? Rosie Kilburn

Rosie Kilburn embarked on a heartfelt mission with her project, The Knock On Effect, after receiving a cancer diagnosis in February 2008. Determined to make a difference, Rosie organized a successf...

Good For Nothing? Rui Jorge Octavio

Rui Jorge Octavio’s innovative project, Grab Your Mike, is a testament to the power of volunteering and entrepreneurship. Through this stand-up comedy club, Rui offers young people the chance to en...

Good For Nothing: Seja Majeed’s Inspiring Volunteer Journey

Seja Majeed, a dynamic figure in the world of fun volunteering, has leveraged a vcashpoint grant to launch her innovative Cosmetic Hives project. This initiative offers make-up application workshop...

Good For Nothing? Liam Snusher

Liam Snusher is an inspiring figure in the world of arts and culture, particularly in Milton Keynes. With a passion for graffiti and skateboard art, Liam founded Blank Canvas and Buszy Jam—initiati...

Finalists for the Vinspired National Awards Announced

The finalists for the prestigious Vinspired National Awards have been officially announced. This year, the announcement was made during an engaging acting workshop for the nominees, designed to fos...

World Creativity and Innovation Day with Igniter

World Creativity and Innovation Day is a celebration of the power of ideas and the impact they can have on our world. At Vinspired, we are proud to support this day with our platform, Igniter, whic...

Write a Captivating Cover Letter: 10 Steps to Getting a Job

Crafting a compelling cover letter is a critical step in landing your dream job. Once you’ve gained some work experience and crafted an amazing CV, it’s time to give an employer a deeper insight in...

Write a CV: 10 Steps to Getting a Job Creating an effective CV is essential for anyone looking to gain work experience or advance in their career. If you’re new to the job market or looking to refi...

Reach Out: Build Your Network - 10 Steps to Getting a Job

In today’s digital age, managing your personal brand is crucial. If you Google your name, what appears? While not everything needs to be strictly professional, it’s wise to remove anything that mig...

Gaining Skills and Experience: 10 Steps to Getting a Job So you’ve finished studying, and it’s time to embark on the career journey. You’ve been preparing for this moment throughout your academic l...

Celebrating the Naz Legacy Foundation’s 5th Anniversary

A Milestone in Championing Diversity and Integration Last week, I had the pleasure of attending the 5th anniversary of the Naz Legacy Foundation Reception at Thomas Goode, Mayfair. This illustrious...

The Vinspired National Awards ‘09

The Vinspired National Awards ‘09 was a night to remember, full of excitement, celebration, and inspiration. As the event came to a close, awards were proudly displayed on mantelpieces, and the eve...

Fundraising Week - Ambassador’s Vlog

Discover the Insights from Fundraising Week with Vinspired Ambassadors Vinspired Ambassadors had the incredible opportunity to attend Fundraising Week—a pivotal conference dedicated to empowering i...

Do More with Your Weekly Shop British families throw away 7.2 million tonnes of food every year, with 50% of it still edible. Meanwhile, 13.5% of the UK population lives in food poverty, unable to ...

The Highlights of a Year with Vinspired

Ah, the end of another year! Time flies by so quickly, and as I approach the cusp of leaving the 16-25 age bracket, it’s bittersweet. But let’s not dwell on it. Instead, let’s celebrate the incredi...

Service Nation? Enhancing Voluntary Service for Youth Empowerment

In the recent Demos report, “Service Nation,” several compelling arguments advocate for a national scheme of civic engagement. This discussion is timely, as the notion of voluntary service, particu...

Giving the gift of time

Giving the gift of time It’s simple. Last year, it became popular to ask for donations to charity instead of a gift. This year, with hundreds of thousands of young people worried about their financ...

The Week That Was

Well, what a week it has been! It began with our participation in the V20 and attending a Big Society Network event at Somerset House, where Prime Minister David Cameron presented a strong defense ...

Vinspired National Awards: Tomorrow Night!

Oh my gosh… it’s time to get ready for an evening filled with inspirational stories and celebrations… it’s just one day before the next live Vinspired National Awards! The thrill and excitement hav...

Climate Week: 5 Top Environmental Tips! How often do you recycle or switch off a lightbulb when you leave a room? If you’re anything like me, then perhaps not enough. Little actions like these can ...

Vlogging Tips: How to Create an Epic Volunteering Vlog

Calling all social action heroes and volunteering champions! We invite you to contribute your vlogs to our exciting video series. Whether you’re passionate about civic engagement, animal welfare, o...

Click to Give Food to Those in Need

Are you eager to make a difference without stepping out of your home or spending a dime? Discover simple ways to contribute to impactful causes like homelessness and poverty and international aid t...

How to Promote Your Volunteers to Organisers

Volunteering is a powerful way to foster leadership and community engagement. By empowering volunteers with more responsibilities, you can significantly enhance their contributions and impact. Here...

6 Tips for Summer Job Success - Inspired by Our Favourite Films

Finishing Up with School or Uni for the Summer? As the school year wraps up, many students are seeking ways to gain work experience and earn some extra cash. This summer, why not take inspiration f...

Top 10 Free Summer Experiences

Are you looking for exciting ways to spend your summer break while making a positive impact? Here are Vinspired’s top 10 free summer volunteer opportunities that not only allow you to gain invaluab...

NCS Summer of a Lifetime Launched at the House of Lords

The “NCS Summer of a Lifetime” program has officially taken off with a grand launch at the House of Lords. This prestigious event gathered young volunteers, peers, MPs, and corporate representative...

Search for Star Pupils is NOW ON!

The Search for Star Pupils is officially open! As part of the European Year of Volunteering 2011, we’re in pursuit of exceptional young individuals aged 11-16 who are making a significant impact in...

Do good from your desk

Do good from your desk Lent, for some, is typically a time to give up a vice or do good with money or time. Here we have compiled a list of little things you can do from the comfort of your chair, ...

4 Ways to Travel the World for Charity in 2014

Explore the World and Make a Difference Are you an adventurer looking to make your travels more meaningful this year? Discover how you can combine your love for travel with impactful volunteer char...

Vinspired Just Got Smarter: Launching Our New Android App Today marks an exciting milestone for the Vinspired team as we unveil our latest innovation at the Go-on ND11 conference—the Vinspired Andr...

Youth Advisory Board: Working on Teamv

Youth Advisory Board: Working on Teamv “Great customer experiences start with listening to the customer to learn, instead of talking to the customer to sell.” - Alan See, Vice President of the Berr...

Vinspired Celebrates Young Volunteers with Olympic Torch Nomination

The excitement for the London 2012 Olympic Games is building, and with the event fast approaching, a unique opportunity has arisen for young volunteers to shine. Vinspired, a leading platform for v...

NCS Summer of a Lifetime Youth Advisory Group: Olympics, 2012 and Celebration Events

The NCS Summer of a Lifetime Youth Advisory Group recently reconvened to discuss exciting developments and opportunities for young people. This meeting was a vibrant showcase of teamwork and collab...

What It Was Like to Be on BBC Radio 1

As part of BBC Radio 1’s inaugural Local Hero Week, our very own vTiger was invited to discuss the joys of volunteering on The Surgery. This event took place from April 18th to 25th and aimed to hi...

Star Pupil Winners Announced

In celebration of the European Year of Volunteering 2011, Vinspired launched an exciting contest to recognize exceptional young volunteers who are using their skills and creativity to make a differ...

Embrace the New Beginnings of Spring with Vinspired

Welcome to the vibrant season of spring! As we shake off the remnants of winter, it’s time to immerse ourselves in the warmth and opportunities that this season brings. Spring is not just about blo...

Watch and Win as We Get Celebrities Into Volunteering with 4Music

Discover how four celebrities took a break from their busy schedules to make a difference through volunteering with 4Music. Even these stars found time to give back, showcasing the impact of volunt...

Big Society Must Not Ignore “Forgotten Youth”

Working on v’s formative evaluation has been both challenging and enlightening, providing valuable insights into data collection processes. Despite the breadth of collected data, there’s room for i...

Greetings…

Thank you for such a warm introduction! While I’ll be stepping into a new role, rest assured, you haven’t seen the last of my predecessor. Who Am I? Before diving into the latest news and updates, ...

My Thoughts on v’s Formative Evaluation

Too often, evaluation reports are briefly heralded before being confined to the dusty annals of an organization’s history alongside a collection of annual reports from yesteryear. At Vinspired, lea...

Empowering Young Volunteers: Shaping the Future of Employment

The UK Government is taking significant steps to enhance opportunities for young people aged 16-25 by developing a comprehensive strategy focused on education, training, and employment. In collabor...

Enhance Your LinkedIn Profile with Volunteer Experience

This week, LinkedIn introduced a highly anticipated feature—the ability to add a “Volunteer Experience & Causes” section to your LinkedIn profile. This update allows LinkedIn members to highlight v...

Should We Send MPs Back to School? A Call for Youth Engagement in Politics Earlier today, I received a compelling link to the initial findings of a study exploring young people’s attitudes towards ...

Vinspired and Bigga Fish Block Party

Over the August bank holiday weekend, Vinspired teamed up with Bigga Fish to host an unforgettable Block Party at the Notting Hill Carnival. This event, aimed at celebrating youth culture, was a te...

Summer of Give

The Summer of Give campaign by Vinspired transforms summer into a season of giving and creativity. From festivals to unique experiences like living sustainably, Vinspired invites 18-25 year olds ac...

Young People, Big Society

At the heart of the Anatomy of Youth, the report by Vinspired and Demos, is a set of youth portraits that provide a snapshot of how young people are addressing the challenges facing their generatio...

Why We’re Still So Hungry for Change

In 2011, addressing food poverty was Team v’s inaugural campaign. Fast forward to 2014, and we find ourselves revisiting this critical issue. Why? Because food poverty in the UK continues to intens...

The 8 Dos and Don’ts of Surviving a Horror Movie

If you’ve ever watched a horror film, you’ve likely questioned some of the characters’ choices. Shouldn’t they know to stay in the light and avoid haunted hallways at 3 AM? Making the wrong choice ...

Volunteer of the Month - October 2014

Meet Robert Mooney Robert Mooney exemplifies dedication by balancing extensive volunteering with his college commitments. His outstanding efforts have earned him the title of “Volunteer of the Mont...

Forget a Revolution: These Changemakers Are Putting Politics on Your Radar

Politics, and your attitudes towards them, are garnering serious attention in the media right now. While celebrities express their disillusionment with the political system, young changemakers are ...

Anti Bullying Week 2014: Do Your Bit to End Bullying

Join the Movement Against Bullying Research conducted by the Anti-Bullying Alliance highlights a troubling reality: 1 in 10 young people experience bullying, and this number skyrockets to over 8 in...

Let’s Champion Student Volunteering During Economic Challenges

In today’s challenging economic climate, the importance of student volunteering cannot be overstated. Engaging with local communities not only broadens perspectives but also fosters empathy and und...

Carrell and the Coffee Slobs: A Short Story on the Power of Volunteering Volunteering is a transformative experience that brings people together and creates a positive vision for the future. At Vin...

Summer of Give at Creamfields 2010

As the ‘Summer of Give’ concludes, I had the privilege of volunteering with Vinspired at the renowned Creamfields Dance Festival. From the very first day, the energy and enthusiasm on the bigvbus w...

A Young Leader’s Take on Radio 1’s Big Conversation

On Tuesday, 13th September, I attended the Radio 1 “Big Conversation” event at City Hall. Encouraged by my volunteer coordinator, I was ready to showcase my debating skills, as he had seen my poten...

Response to Commission on Youth Unemployment Report

Volunteering gives our future business leaders opportunities to build skills in risk-free environments Hearing insights from recent discussions around youth unemployment, it becomes evident that wh...

Living it up with Labour

UPDATE 04/10/10: Thanks to Mo v20, we officially have the support of Ed Miliband, leader of the Labour Party. Here’s the message we received: “I wish you all the best with your youth volunteering c...

v’s Autumn Marketing Campaigns

Make the Team On October 5th, Vinspired will launch its new marketing initiative, “Make the Team.” This dynamic campaign targets young males, leveraging their passion for football. By volunteering ...

Will You Make the Team?

Today is not just any ordinary rainy Tuesday—it’s the launch day for our exciting new campaign, Make the Team! This initiative encourages everyone aged 16-25 to dive into football-related volunteer...

Our Youth Advisory Board Looks to the Future At Vinspired, we are proud to host a dynamic Youth Advisory Board (YAB), a group committed to driving impactful change. More than just a symbol, these y...

V at the Party Conferences 2010

Party conferences may seem like a distant memory, yet their impact on the volunteers from Vinspired who participated remains significant. As part of the Coalition for Young People, Vinspired offere...

Evaluations Show Sector and Young People Gain from Full-Time Volunteering

An evaluation of the first year of the full-time volunteering program, vTalent Year, highlights significant benefits for both the sector and young volunteers. Young people have contributed an impre...

Compelling New Research Reveals the Positive Impact of Student Volunteering

As Vinspired launches a nationwide tour of universities and further education colleges, new research confirms the positive impact of volunteering on students and the wider community. A significant ...

News from the Network!

JLS Supports Brook’s Sexual Health Campaign ‘Big issues don’t have to be a big deal’ is the essence of Brook’s latest campaign on sexual health, powered by young volunteers. The initiative, led by ...

5 Inspiring Ways to Celebrate Volunteers Week

Volunteers Week is happening from the 1st to the 12th of June this year! Yes, that’s right—Volunteers Week has been extended to twelve days, giving you more time to participate and celebrate. Here ...

NCS Grads Clean Up Their Local Beach

Image: A vibrant scene of young volunteers cleaning up a beach, with clear blue skies and a sense of community spirit. Here’s a great story to inspire you this Volunteers Week! At National Citizen ...

Is Volunteering the Answer to Career Challenges? An Insight from Volunteers’ Week 2016 Volunteers’ Week 2016 highlighted a pressing issue for young people: the perceived inaccessibility of fulfilli...

Is Volunteering the Answer? Insights from Volunteers’ Week 2016

The Growing Challenges for Young People In today’s competitive job market, many young people find themselves dreaming of fulfilling careers, attending university, and owning a home—dreams that ofte...

A Young Person’s Perspective on the EU Referendum

Life after Brexit has posed unique challenges for young people, yet it also presents opportunities for growth and engagement. The sense of unity and optimism among today’s youth is vital as we navi...

It’s the Small Everyday Deeds That Can Make a Big Difference

In today’s fast-paced world, it’s easy to overlook how impactful small acts of kindness can be. Whether it’s offering a helping hand or simply smiling at a stranger, these small deeds can significa...

Vinspired Goes Mobile: Revolutionizing Volunteer Engagement

This week, Vinspired launched its groundbreaking iPhone app, marking a significant milestone in mobile engagement. The response from young people and the voluntary sector has been overwhelmingly po...

Volunteer of the Month - December 2014

Celebrating Outstanding Young Volunteers This month’s spotlight is on a remarkable 17-year-old, whose dedication to volunteering has truly impressed our judges. Her extensive commitment to civic en...

Three Million Youth Votes Up for Grabs

New research from Demos highlights that three million young voters remain undecided in the upcoming General Election. The Tune In, Turn Out report, part of the Swing the Vote campaign, outlines key...

A Year in Beta: Embracing Volunteering Technology Technology is rapidly evolving, and at Vinspired, we’ve embraced this change to enhance volunteering experiences. It’s crucial for us to stay ahead...

Volunteer of the Month - January 2014

Meet Our Volunteer: A Story of Passion and Dedication John Sennett embodies the spirit of volunteering through his love for sports. He has dedicated over 600 hours to volunteering, earning the pres...

London Marathon 2015 - I’m In!

Running a marathon is no small feat—completing 26.2 miles requires dedication, passion, and resilience. At Vinspired, we found these qualities in one of our very own volunteers. After reviewing num...

5 Things We’ve Learnt About Food Poverty

At the beginning of Team v’s food poverty campaign, Beyond Food, it was clear why we were so hungry for change. Since then, 95 Leaders and 280 volunteers have held food drives, collecting over 35,0...

Shining a Light on Young Carers

Recognizing the Vital Role of Young Carers There are 166,000 young carers in England, and this number is just the visible portion. Many more remain hidden, providing essential care to family member...

The 7 Types of Volunteers

Volunteering offers a diverse range of opportunities that cater to different skills and interests. From supporting local communities to offering a helping hand in environmental conservation, the wo...

Youth Volunteering to Peer-Led Social Action

Welcome to Junction49 I am thrilled to introduce Junction49 as part of the Vinspired platform. This collaboration enhances our support for young individuals eager to engage in volunteering and soci...

Volunteer of the Month - February 2015

Celebrating Our Volunteers Volunteer of the Month - February 2015 We’re doing things a bit differently for February – we’ve got two Volunteers of the Month. Both have made an incredible impact in t...

Student Volunteering Week 2012: Back to Community Roots Today marks the beginning of Student Volunteering Week 2012, a significant event organized by Volunteering England. Now in its 11th year, the...

Tuition Fees and the 2015 Election

Do you think university tuition fees in the UK cost what they should? Or do government policies leave a lot to be desired? Now that superstar YouTuber Hazel Hayes has had her say, we’re handing ove...

The Gap Between the Rich and Poor

The gap between the rich and poor is a pressing issue that resonates deeply with young people today. Inequality between classes in the UK has become a focal point for many, raising concerns about e...

6 Ways to Continue Social Action with NCS Cashpoint

So, you’ve completed the NCS program and had an unforgettable experience. You’ve made lifelong friends and completed a project that you are incredibly proud of. What’s next? There’s still so much m...

4 Great Volunteering Ideas for Students

Discover impactful volunteer opportunities and enrich your university experience. Student Volunteering Week has shone a spotlight on the myriad ways students can contribute to their communities, de...

Should I Let the Government Read My Snapchat?

With the increasing intersection of technology and civic engagement, a pressing question emerges: Should the government have access to our digital communications, like Snapchat? This debate taps in...

Why Affordable Housing Would Swing My Vote

Affordable housing is a critical issue for many young people today. As a platform focused on volunteering for young people, we understand the challenges faced by those seeking independence. This ar...

You Don’t Have to Be Old to Care for the Elderly

Caring for the elderly is a paramount concern that transcends age. The importance of elderly care is becoming increasingly significant as our population ages. As young individuals, we have the powe...

Volunteer of the Month - March 2015

Meet March’s Volunteer of the Month, 17-year-old Josh Henry Josh has already received a v10 and v50 award and has volunteered over 120 hours at Seaford Musical Theatre Juniors. His hard work and de...

How Team v is Swinging the Vote This May

The general election is just around the corner, and Team v’s latest campaign is determined to get more young people voting. But how exactly are they planning to achieve this? Let’s dive into how Te...

Effective Campaigning: Five Tips for Creating a Lasting Legacy

vInspired’s Team v’s Do You Care? campaign successfully raised awareness about young carers and promoted local support services. In just seven weeks, Team v leader created a campaign with an enduri...

How Can You Report a Crime When You Don’t Trust the Police?

Crime and justice are prevalent topics in media, often dramatized in series like Luther, Sherlock, and Silent Witness. However, beyond fiction, the real-world implications of crime and justice are ...

If You Want a Job, You Have to Make a Change

The unemployment rate is reportedly decreasing, yet for young individuals, securing a job has become increasingly challenging. While older generations progress in their careers, young people are mi...

Team v: It’s the Final Countdown!

On the weekend of March 15-16, Team v leaders gathered to reflect on their successful campaign to combat loneliness and isolation among older people and to introduce their final campaign theme. Thi...

New NEET Figures Reveal the Need for Varied Routes to Employment Recent reports highlight a concerning trend: one in four young people in some communities are not in education, employment, or train...

The Stark Choice Facing Voters in May: If Westeros Was Westminister

A lot has happened over the past five years in British politics. And in the same period, a lot has unfolded in the past four series of “Game of Thrones.” But ahead of this year’s General Election, ...

Why Should Young People Care About What Happens to the NHS After the Next Election?

The future of the NHS is a pressing issue that requires the attention of young people. With elections around the corner, the decisions made today will shape the healthcare landscape of tomorrow. Sw...

4 Big Changes Young People Face After the General Election

The General Election 2015 heralds significant shifts for Britain’s young people. With a Conservative Government led by David Cameron securing a majority, the landscape is set to transform, especial...

Star Awards Provider - Bolton School Celebrating Outstanding Volunteering Initiatives At Vinspired, we are proud to collaborate with exceptional institutions that support and recognize volunteer ef...

5 Ways to Get Involved in Politics

Engaging Young People in Civic Engagement If we’ve learned anything from recent elections, it’s this: young people care about politics. The Team v Swing The Vote campaign successfully mobilized 18-...

5 Reasons Running is Good for the Soul

Exercise + Volunteering = Soul Food Participating in events like the British 10k offers more than just a physical workout; it’s a nourishing experience for the soul. As you prepare to lace up your ...

Volunteer of the Month - July 2015

September’s Inspiring Volunteer: A Spotlight on Elena This month’s Volunteer of the Month award goes to Elena, an inspiring individual recognized for her dedication and hard work across several com...

The Day the YAB Came to Town

On January 16th, the Vinspired Youth Advisory Board (YAB) made waves at the London offices with a day full of innovation, creativity, and engaging discussions. The YAB members, known for their crea...

Be Part of the Olympic Legacy with the 2012 Community Games

Are you ready to be part of the Olympic legacy? The 2012 Community Games is an exciting initiative bringing communities across England together to create their very own Olympic and Paralympic-inspi...

School Achieves 10,000 Hours of Volunteering

Hinckley Academy and John Cleveland Sixth Form Centre (HAJC) celebrates a remarkable achievement by logging 10,000 hours of voluntary work through Vinspired. Since joining the platform in 2013, ove...

Volunteer of the Month – November

This month, we shine a spotlight on an exceptional volunteer, 19-year-old, whose dedication to civic engagement and community service has earned her the Volunteer of the Month award. Starting her j...

Up with Life Skills, Down with Thumb Socks

Collaborate with Vinspired and Unleash Your Potential At Vinspired, we prioritize your insights and ideas because you are the driving force behind our mission. Recently, we engaged with young indiv...

What Do You Get From Giving?

Volunteering is one of the most rewarding ways to give back to society, whether you’re helping individuals, your local community, or on a wider scale. And what’s even more brilliant is that through...

Rising Fares and the Unemployed

As we step into the New Year, leaving behind the challenges of 2011, we are met with new obstacles—especially for those seeking employment opportunities in London. A significant hurdle is the recen...

Be Your Own Young Apprentice Through Volunteering

Volunteering offers young people a unique chance to step into the world of opportunities, much like the popular Young Apprentice series. With over 4.7 million viewers tuning in for its finale, it’s...

European Volunteering: The New Inter-railing?

The European Year of Volunteering 2011 has been a pivotal moment for countries across Europe to recognize the critical role of volunteers in our societies and economies. Beyond the celebrations, a ...

I’m on Cloud 9

As a platform that connects volunteers through unique experiences, Vinspired has once again delivered a standout event that left attendees on a high. The recent collaboration with Goji for the laun...

How to Have an Affordable Adventure Abroad

Are you dreaming of exploring the world but worried about the costs? The great news is you can embark on a global adventure while making a positive impact. Here’s how volunteering abroad can offer ...

Volunteering Conquered Naomi’s Panic Attacks

Volunteering conquered Naomi’s panic attacks and transformed her life. This summer, we’ve crafted three mini-guides to show you how volunteering can improve mental health, strengthen communities, a...

My Week: Insights from a Finance Director at Vinspired

The Finance Director is Thinking on His Feet Monday: I attended a brainstorming session with colleagues and Vinspired’s Youth Advisory Board—12 young volunteers who are integral to our decision-mak...

Everybody’s Talking This week, there’s been a surge in discussions about Google+ and whether organizations should be leveraging its features. Since Google introduced pages earlier this month, the b...

The Unaffordable Youth Unemployment Crisis - and How Volunteering Can Help Youth unemployment is a growing crisis, with severe financial implications. The Commission on Youth Unemployment’s report,...

Why Media Portrayals of Young People Need to Change

The discussion around how young people are portrayed in the media has been gaining momentum, thanks to initiatives like the #PressChange4Youth campaign. This initiative aims to challenge and change...

Student Volunteering Week: Volunteering Provides Some of the Most Valuable University Experiences Being a student presents numerous opportunities and challenges. University or college is an environ...

Why is an Exploration Society Talking About Volunteering?

It’s a compelling question, but British Exploring has been involved with volunteering for over 80 years. Our new Explorer Miles Social Action program is a natural progression for the society. Youth...

How to Improve Your Mental Health

Let’s be honest, we’ve all been there. You feel down and alone. Something happened in your life that you’re struggling to recover from, or maybe nothing has happened, yet you feel embarrassed to ad...

Improve Your Mental Health Through Volunteering

We’ve all been there—feeling down and alone. Whether it’s a specific event you’re struggling to recover from, or just a general sense of difficulty with life, it’s important to acknowledge that you...

Volunteer of the Month – December 2015

This month’s incredible Volunteer of the Month is Mary Otumahana. Mary has been spearheading a project called The RecordShop, set up as a free, temporary recording studio where young artists can re...

5 #strongnotskinny Exercise Ideas for the Time-Poor and Gym-Less According to The Guardian, over 40% of us won’t even manage to keep our New Year’s resolutions beyond the end of January. However, a...

Keeping Reality Real

In today’s digital age, it’s easy to lose sight of what’s genuine. With media filled with airbrushed celebrities and reality TV shows tweaking voices with auto-tune, our perception of reality often...

The Big Society and Community Volunteering

The concept of the Big Society has faded from political discourse, yet in Kensal Rise, we see citizen power in action amid significant public service cuts. Despite the Kensal Rise Library’s closure...

How Student Volunteering Changed My Life

Volunteering as a student has profoundly transformed my life. Participating in volunteer work experience while balancing my studies and full-time job has been challenging, yet incredibly rewarding....

Our Team v Leaders: Tackling Loneliness and Isolation Amongst the Elderly

Loneliness and isolation among the elderly is a growing concern that requires both empathy and action. This issue recently resonated with me during a visit to my Grannie, who is approaching 96 year...

Facebook Should Share the Wealth

Google’s AdSense program allows website owners to monetize their content by displaying ads. Could Facebook implement a similar strategy for brands managing Facebook pages? This concept could open a...

Neil’s Week: Anacondas and Startling Statistics

Sunday. I attended a second audition as a potential volunteer performer at the 2012 opening ceremony. Among 14,000 of us embarking on this exciting journey, there was an extraordinary buzz of excit...

Massive Launch with Tinchy

Apologies for the delay in this update. Mock exams and coursework had me occupied, but I’m back, ready to share exciting news! On Tuesday, November 15th, we celebrated the launch of nominations for...

Volunteer of the Month: Liam O’Dell

Volunteer of the Month: Liam O’Dell Liam O’Dell, a 15-year-old enthusiastic volunteer from Bedford, has achieved his v50 award and has no plans to stop any time soon. Liam began volunteering in ear...

Beta Generation | Four Ways to Learn Something New

Discover New Skills and Hobbies Are you interested in picking up a new skill or hobby but unsure where to start? Finding motivation can be challenging. According to our research on the Beta Generat...

Beta Generation: The Adventures of Jam Boy

From Stewed Fruit to Supermarket Shelves Fraser Doherty, a young entrepreneur, began his journey into the world of business at the age of 14 with nothing more than a passion for creating healthy ja...

Five Ridiculous Things to Do with a One Direction Portrait

Have you heard our smashing news? We have an exclusive opportunity for One Direction fans to own a unique piece of memorabilia, drawn by 1D’s own fair hands! Self-portraits sketched by One Directio...

National Awards Finalists | Prime Minister for a Day

Inspiring Changes with Young Volunteers We are thrilled to introduce the 18 finalists across six categories for the 2013 vInspired National Awards. These remarkable young volunteers share their vis...

Get into Retail… Together

Are you eager to explore unique volunteer opportunities and expand your skills? Vinspired offers an exciting program called Retail Ready People (RRP) that facilitates teamwork and collaboration whi...

Team v Residential 2: An Inspiring Weekend

My internship at Vinspired kicked off with an incredible experience at the second Team v residential. This program offers 18-25-year-olds the chance to lead social action projects, fostering leader...

Volunteer of the Month: January 2016

This month’s star is an inspiring volunteer, recognized for his outstanding contributions as a Cashpointer. Nominated by our team at Vinspired, this remarkable 18-year-old has demonstrated exceptio...

Student Volunteering Week 2016: Take a Leap!

This is my most recent volunteering activity - falling 160 ft into nothing. Bungee jumping was one of the most exhilarating and terrifying experiences of my life. It’s something I would never have ...

Volunteer of the Month - February

Celebrating Remarkable Campaign Volunteering This February, we are thrilled to recognize an outstanding volunteer, Sophie Lees. Nominated by West Cheshire College for her exceptional advocacy and c...

Why You Should Become a vInspired Ambassador

Discover New Skills and Make a Difference Are you eager to learn new skills, undertake fresh challenges, and impact change? Becoming a vInspired Ambassador might be your perfect opportunity. As an ...

March 2016 Volunteer of the Month

Drumroll please for March’s Volunteer of the Month… Saleha Latif! At just 17 years old, Saleha is transforming perceptions and breaking stereotypes amongst her peers, community members, and beyond....

Volunteering with Refugees in the Calais Jungle

It seems a day doesn’t pass without the refugee crisis making headlines. The media often shows the dire living conditions in refugee camps and the faces of those yearning for freedom. What Can You ...

The A to Z of politics - a handy guide

The A to Z of politics - a handy guide Don't know the different between a ballot and a bill? Wondering why everyone at the party is trying to get a seat (musical chairs much!)? We've put together a...

It’s Time for More Lolz, NOT Trolls

Embrace Positivity Online Have you ever been tweeting, Facebooking, or Tumbling your life away, only to be met with a nasty comment from a stranger? Or perhaps you’re a little guilty of sending out...

An Apple a Day Keeps Negativity Away

We always strive to spread positivity online from our headquarters at Vinspired. Meanwhile, Team V has been actively engaging communities to maintain mental health and well-being. Make Time For You...

Five Things You Could Do with 5,000 Hours (Apart from Win Prizes)

Join the 5000 Hour Volunteer Challenge We’re excited to introduce the 5000 Hour Volunteer Challenge, aiming to log 5,000 hours of volunteering by the end of May. Participants not only contribute to...

Three Ways to Make a Memorable International Day of Happiness

Embrace the Joy of Giving It’s been scientifically proven that helping others can significantly boost our happiness levels. As social beings, we derive immense pleasure from aiding the success of o...

Volunteer of the Month: Robert Bellis

March’s Volunteer of the Month has been awarded to Robert Bellis for his outstanding contributions as a Sea Cadet Instructor with the Ellesmere Port Sea Cadets. Robert has excelled in training cade...

8 Career Opportunities: 1,701 Applicants

Volunteering has become a vital stepping stone in today’s challenging job market. At Vinspired, we frequently encounter questions about the significance of volunteering experience. It might seem th...

Six Ways You Can Volunteer Over Easter

Need some ideas that’ll get you off the couch and doing good things throughout the Easter holidays? Here are our favorite picks! This week has been a busy week for all of us at Vinspired, especiall...

Club Cardio: A Rockstar Youth Case Study

Empowering Young Entrepreneurs with Vinspired and Rockstar Youth Vinspired, in collaboration with Rockstar Youth, is pioneering a transformative approach for young entrepreneurs. This partnership s...

Get into Festivals for Free This Summer with Volunteering!

Love Festival Season? Volunteer and Enjoy Your Favorite Bands for Free With summer approaching and the festival season in full swing, what better way to enjoy the music and festivities than by volu...

Fashion Revolution: Who Made My Clothes?

On April 24th, 2013, the Rana Plaza building in Dhaka, Bangladesh, collapsed, marking the fourth largest industrial disaster in history. This tragic event led to the loss of many lives and sparked ...

If the World Volunteered…

In our technology-driven society, volunteering has become more essential than ever. As we indulge in gadgets and entertainment, especially during festive seasons, we’re reminded to be generous and ...

vInspired Live – It’s Time to #ChangeSomething Get ready for an event that redefines volunteering and social impact. vInspired Live promises to be the event of the summer, eclipsing even the bigges...

3 Amazing Cashpoint Projects You Could Start with £500

Empowering Young Entrepreneurs with Vinspired Cashpoint In today’s challenging economic climate, young people face numerous hurdles. With the Educational Maintenance Allowance being cut and youth u...

4 Ways We Made Volunteers Into Retail Superstars

Our Leeds and Rochdale Pop-Up Shops Are Opening Soon! The Retail Ready People (RRP) shops in Leeds and Rochdale are about to launch, offering young volunteers aged 16-25 an invaluable experience in...

8 Ways to Be a Great Leader

Develop Leadership Skills through Volunteering The world is brimming with great leaders, and there’s no reason why you shouldn’t be one of them. Whether you aim to lead a scout group, a community p...

4 Inspiring Campaigns That Could Transform Your Summer

Are you ready to make a difference this summer? Vinspired, a leading platform for volunteering and NFT awards, presents four incredible campaigns led by young people, each mentored by a celebrity, ...

Volunteer of the Month: Nicco Kihaka

18-year-old volunteer Nicco Kihaka from Manchester shines as a young advisor for StreetGames. StreetGames is a transformative initiative that brings sports and volunteering to young people in disad...

5 Ways We Celebrate Our Volunteers During Volunteers Week

Volunteers are the heart of our community, and at Vinspired, we believe in showing our gratitude in meaningful ways. The efforts of young volunteers not only enrich their communities but also bring...

2012 vInspired National Awards Finalists Announced

The 2012 vInspired National Awards finalists have been announced, celebrating the incredible achievements of young volunteers across the country. These awards recognize the passion and dedication o...

Volunteer of the Month - April

This month, we proudly celebrate our Volunteer of the Month - April with a spotlight on an inspiring individual who exemplifies dedication and passion in their volunteering efforts. Meet Louis Eloi...

August’s Volunteer Hero

August’s Volunteer Hero is Shanice, whose inspiring journey through volunteering sets a shining example for everyone at Vinspired. How does it feel to be our Volunteer of the Month winner? I’m more...

5 Inspirational Quotes from Our Team v Leaders

Our Team v leaders are truly inspirational figures. Here’s what you can learn from them through their words and experiences. Every year, we recruit 120 committed, hard-working, and passionate young...

Feelgood Festival Playlists to Get You Through Summer

Embrace the Festival Spirit Are you ready to dive into the world of festivals? Whether you’re volunteering at a festival or just soaking in the vibes from home, Vinspired is here to enhance your su...

Emma Norris: How Team v Made Her the Star of vInspired Live

Emma Norris Shines as a Volunteer Leader Emma Norris has emerged as a true champion in the volunteering community through her role as a Team v leader at Vinspired. Her journey has been nothing shor...

Selling Your Volunteering Experience to Graduate Employers

Volunteering is more than just a way to give back to your community and meet like-minded individuals—it’s a strategic move to boost your employability. In this article, we’ll explore how you can ef...

4 Ways Volunteering Can Make You a Better Brother or Sister

Volunteering is a transformative activity that benefits not only communities but also individuals on a personal level. For siblings, volunteering together can enhance relationships, foster personal...

Five Fun, Free, Feelgood Things to Do This Summer

The glorious sun has returned, so let’s get out there and make the most of it! After a brief wet spell, it seems the sun’s come back to coax us out of our shelters and get us out in the fresh air. ...

Results Day: The Alternative Careers Advisor

Explore New Paths Beyond Traditional Education Planning to go off to university or college is a great achievement. We’re proud of everyone who’s excelled in their exams and is embarking on the path...

8 Great Things About Going Back to School

Summer holidays might be over, but here at Vinspired, we’re all about seeing the glass as half full. So, we’ve put together a list of the best things about going back to school. Don’t deny it—some ...

Volunteering Didn’t Change the World, but It Changed My Life

Volunteering didn’t change the world, but it changed my life. At the age of sixteen, following an intense period of examinations, coursework, and college applications, I made the decision to volunt...

How You Can Use Puppy Power to Help 2 Million People

Puppies! Now, do I have your attention? Good. Because I’m sure we can both agree, puppies are awesome. But you know what’s even better? Puppies that grow up to be guide dogs. They’re basically dog ...

It Only Takes 5 Words to Know Why You Should Volunteer Volunteering is more than just a noble pursuit; it’s a transformative experience that can encapsulate its profound impact in just a few words....

Young People are Changing Our Environment Every Day

Our climate is changing. Seas are rising, the world is getting hotter, and there are species in danger of extinction. However, young people across the UK are actively working to reverse these trend...

9,000 Young People Volunteered in Libraries This Summer

This summer, approximately 9,000 young people engaged in volunteering to support 800,000 children in exploring and enjoying books at libraries during their school holidays. Many of these enthusiast...

Teenagers Bring Joy to Hospital Ward with Generous Toy Donation

Teenagers in the East Durham area have transformed the lives of children at North Tees University Hospital by delivering a generous collection of toys and games. This act of kindness, organized by ...

October’s Volunteer Superhero

This month, we celebrate an inspiring individual whose dedication to volunteering has made a remarkable impact. Our Volunteer Superhero for October is recognized for her unwavering commitment to th...

Teenagers Feel Pressure Not to See Friends and Family

If you spend most of your time studying, you’re not alone. A staggering 57% of 15-17-year-olds feel compelled to prioritize schoolwork above all else. Surprisingly, only 39% believe that happiness ...

4 Creative Shop Designs Led by Retail Ready Volunteers

Celebrating Community Innovation It’s been one year, 60 volunteers, 7,000 volunteer hours, and four pop-up shops since our Retail Ready People programme first opened its doors. This initiative, in ...

5 easy steps for meeting new people

5 easy steps for meeting new people Our Team v leaders know what to do at scary networking events. Facing a room full of people you don’t know can be nerve-wracking. What’s the best way to approach...

6 Professional Tips for Landing Your Dream Job

In today’s fast-paced job market, young people have a unique edge in navigating the employment landscape, largely thanks to social media and technology. Here are six professional tips to help you l...

4 Things to Learn About Volunteering in Politics

VInspired Volunteers Make an Impact at Party Conferences Party conferences are among the most significant events in the political calendar. Our volunteers at VInspired joined MPs to lead our “Pop-u...

4 Eco-Friendly Fashion Tips to Customize Your Clobber

Every five minutes, 10,000 items of clothing are discarded in the UK. That’s about 2 billion garments each year. At Vinspired, we’re giving old clothes a new lease on life, helping you save money a...

10 Easy Ways to Be Kind

Mark your calendar for the 13th of November—it’s Kindness Day! This special day is dedicated to celebrating and promoting kindness in all its wonderful forms. Let’s embrace the opportunity to encou...

How Teenagers Raised £3,000 for Schools in India

By working together as a team, we raised a life-changing £3,000 for two schools in Vellore, India. With just a little effort and time, we transformed the lives of young people on the other side of ...

Want to Improve the World? Become a Young Trustee Discover the Power of Volunteering for Young People In celebration of Trustee Week, we delve into the transformative potential of young trusteeship...

The Super Volunteers of St Paul’s Academy

The Super Volunteers of St Paul’s Academy have truly excelled in their community, embodying the spirit of student volunteerism. These young volunteers are shining examples of resilience and civic e...

10 Ways to Volunteer this Christmas

As the festive season approaches, the spirit of giving takes center stage. This Christmas, why not extend that generosity to those in need by volunteering? Here are some creative and impactful ways...

Meet November’s Volunteer Superhero

Meet Eleanor R., a skydiving, awareness-raising superstar who continues to inspire those around her by stepping out of her comfort zone. Eleanor’s story is a testament to how anyone can transform f...

How You Could Have Footballers Cheering You

It’s not unusual to support footballers from the sofa, but how often do Premier League footballers celebrate you? That’s exactly what happened when Middlesbrough FC’s Marten De Roon and Viktor Fisc...

How Jess Transformed from Unemployment to a Community Leader

Jess’s inspiring journey from unemployment to a community leader is a testament to resilience and empathy. After university, Jess faced two tough years of unemployment, compounded by challenges wit...

Let’s Make 2017 the Year of Positivity When you look back on 2016, what do you remember? The loss of influential celebrities, or perhaps the significant political changes that dominated the media? ...

January’s Volunteer Superhero

This month’s Volunteer Superhero is a life-affirming, costume-wearing, and record-breaking superstar. Inspired by her grandmother’s hearing loss, she dedicates her time to transforming the lives of...

5 Ways Volunteering Changed My Life

Volunteering has been a transformative journey that has helped me heal, develop, and gain confidence. Here are five impactful ways volunteering has reshaped my life. 1. Giving Back to the Community...

Youth UpRise Pledge: A Sure-Fire Vote Winner for Young Londoners

The London mayoral elections are fast approaching, and the political landscape is heating up. Traditionally, the race has been a contest between Boris Johnson and Ken Livingstone. However, their ab...

How Volunteering Helped Me (and Can Help You) Overcome Bullying

Bullying is a word we all know—a word we all hate, perhaps. Truthfully, it’s something many of us have encountered, if not personally, then through someone we know. I was bullied, targeted because ...

Give a Book, Change a Life

Do you have old books gathering dust on your shelves? Is your school or college updating its curriculum this year? What happens to those old books? They might not hold much value to you, but for yo...

Opportunities Spotlight: Our Cheat Sheet of Fun Volunteering Ideas

Volunteering can be invigorating and fulfilling! At Vinspired, we’re dedicated to offering young people unique volunteer opportunities that suit diverse lifestyles. For those serious about having f...

A Poem About a World of Volunteers

Imagine a World Where Everyone Volunteers Have you ever read a poem about volunteering? If not, you’re in for a treat. Experience a poetic vision of a world where volunteering is a universal norm. ...

Volunteers Wear Their Heart on Their Sleeve - A Poem About Volunteering

Volunteering is a powerful force that unites people across the globe. At Vinspired, we believe in the transformative power of volunteering to bring communities together and create a brighter future...

How Volunteering Can Change the World

Volunteering is a powerful tool for creating meaningful change in our communities. Often underestimated, the impact of simple acts of kindness can result in substantial differences over time, akin ...

Discover the Wonders of Volunteering

In today’s challenging economic climate, young people are increasingly seeking ways to gain new skills while giving back to their communities. For many, volunteering provides a perfect balance, off...

Why Workfare’s “One Size Fits All” Approach is Unhelpful to Young People’s Aspirations The workfare programme has been highly controversial. At school, teachers often emphasized that without hard w...

The Impact of Volunteering on Young People’s Personal Development

For the past week, my Facebook Memories have been highlighting my old Team v campaign promoting healthy relationships back in February 2014. It was a transformative year, one for which I am immense...

Can I Say This? My Battle with Anxiety

Negative associations and stigma around mental health still exist, making it difficult for many to admit when something is wrong. I’ve always been the strong one, handling the pressures of choices ...

What Would the World Be Like if Everyone Volunteered?

Volunteering is a transformative force that benefits both society and individuals. It opens doors to unique experiences, allows us to contribute positively to communities, and equips us with essent...

How Can an Apprenticeship Help My Career?

Employers frequently report that individuals with apprenticeship qualifications are 15% more employable than those with other types of qualifications. Whether or not you’re considering university, ...

Empowering Young Women through Volunteering

At Vinspired, we take pride in empowering young individuals across the country to reach their full potential. Interestingly, 60% of our beneficiaries are women. While we encourage participation in ...

The new and improved vinspired.com (again!)

The new and improved vinspired.com (again!) Hi everyone! Friday again (where did the week go?) and I am just about to head off for a lovely bank holiday weekend of beer and bacon sandwiches, but be...

Anatomy of Youth: Adapting to Climate Change

“The two qualities needed to tackle climate change will be ‘imagination and optimism.’” Climate change is an urgent issue that resonates deeply with today’s youth. A recent survey reveals that thre...

The Anatomy Of Youth: Living and Caring in Fluid Families Understanding Modern Family Dynamics This chapter delves into the evolving family structures that young people experience today and their i...

5 Reasons Why Volunteering Builds Career Skills

Volunteering is an excellent way to develop new skills, expand your network, and enhance your resume. It can significantly impact your career development by offering experiences that traditional ed...

I Can’t Wait to Get Running with the Vinspired National Awards!

Introduction Joining the Vinspired National Awards as a volunteer runner has been an exciting journey so far. I recently graduated from university and am eager to dive into the world of media. This...

How Volunteering Saved My Life

At 11 AM this morning, I delivered a lecture to local students, sharing my journey and my untold story—a story I’ve kept to myself for almost 12 years. Today, I felt ready to open up. I’ve shared p...

Choose Happiness Over Grades

You look at your list of things to do, and immediately think about where, how, and when to start. You know you should start now, but that quiet, repetitive voice in your head gets the better of you...

How I Improved My Mental Health

The initial symptoms of mental health challenges can feel bizarre and confusing. Unlike familiar physical symptoms like a cough or cold, mental health issues often emerge during our teenage years, ...

10 Ways to Volunteer This Easter

Put down the chocolate and help someone out this Easter. Or better yet, volunteer while handing out chocolate to everyone. Spring has sprung! Worldwide – Use Your Accountancy Skills Use your wizard...

Be a Festival Volunteer with Oxfam This Summer

Would you like to spend your summer attending some of the biggest UK festivals while supporting Oxfam’s mission to create a world free from poverty? If so, we have the perfect opportunity for you. ...

Career Planning: 10 Steps to Getting a Job

Your career is a long and winding road, and your first job is only the beginning. It’s not uncommon for people to change careers several times throughout their lives. So, don’t worry if you’re unce...

Reverse Riots: Challenging the Negative Perceptions of Young People

Following the recommendations from the Riots Communities and Victims panel, which emphasized the need for brands to inspire and highlight positive images of young people, we are excited to launch R...

Anatomy of Youth: Owning a Digital Identity – The v20 Cyberteam’s Take

The internet’s profound influence on our lives is undeniable, as evidenced by seven young people dedicating their afternoon to dissecting the ‘Anatomy of Youth’ report in a basement. For those who ...

The Impact of V: Interim Findings

Vinspired has always been about pushing boundaries, trying new approaches, and injecting creativity wherever and whenever possible. This is particularly true of our innovative approach to evaluatio...

How Volunteering Saves Lives: Teaching First Aid with St John Ambulance

Wondering How to Begin a Career in the Medical Profession? Start by volunteering with the St John Ambulance. Through the RISE project, young volunteers have the chance to aid in diverting youth fro...

Young People and Digital Inclusion on the Eve of the National Digital Conference (ND11)

The need to support young people to be partners and co-creators in society, the economy, and the networked nation of the future has never been greater. As we approach the National Digital Conferenc...

Boost Your Career Prospects with Volunteering for Young People

Why Volunteering Matters for A-Level Students As school leavers receive their A-Level results, many find themselves at a crossroads, contemplating their future paths. For those still undecided, vol...

Discover New Features on Vinspired: Assigning Hours, Recommendations, and Do-it Opt-in

We’ve been busy enhancing Vinspired with new features to streamline volunteer management. Here’s a quick overview of what’s new: Assigning Hours Managing volunteer events through Vinspired has beco...

Exciting New Fundraising Partnership with Goji & Tinchy Stryder!

We are thrilled to unveil a new, dynamic fundraising partnership with the innovative technology brand Goji and longstanding Vinspired supporter, Tinchy Stryder. This collaboration is set to inspire...

Claire and Fliss’s Isle of Wight SOG Blog: Friday For those who think today is just about the start of the World Cup, think again! Today marks the official launch of the Summer of Give, an incredib...

Dan’s SOG Isle of Wight Blog: Saturday

Hey folks! We are still soaking in the vibes at the Isle of Wight Festival 2010 for the Summer of Give! Yesterday was a whirlwind of volunteering excitement on the Big V Bus, climaxing with epic pe...

Dan’s SOG Isle of Wight Blog: Sunday

The final day of the Isle of Wight Festival 2010 marked a vibrant culmination of the Summer of Give initiative. As the festival unfolded, attendees experienced a dynamic range of performances from ...

Sharing Volunteering Success

Last Thursday, our v20 members had the unique opportunity to attend a noteworthy event at Portcullis House, Parliament. This gathering, hosted by the National Council for Voluntary Youth Services a...

Double 0 V20: Licence to Save Volunteering!

Exploring Youth Participation in Politics Increasing awareness among young people about the intricacies of government processes is vital. Politics isn’t just a domain of middle-aged, white males di...

Summer Volunteer Opportunities: Make the Most of Your Summer Break

It’s that time of year again—the sun is shining, and the summer holidays are just around the corner! With plenty of sunshine and free time, you might be wondering how to spend your summer. This is ...

Live from T4 On The Beach with Vinspired

What an incredible day at T4 On The Beach! The Vinspired team arrived last night in sunny Weston-super-Mare, marking another exciting leg of the Summer of Give. We kicked off our evening with a tas...

Do the Green Thing for Climate Week!

Embrace Climate Change Volunteering Did you forget to turn the light off? Too lazy to separate your recycling from organic waste? Do you keep the water running while brushing your teeth? It’s widel...

Join the 2012 Jubilee Celebrations with The Big Lunch Are you ready to meet new people, learn fresh skills, and celebrate The Queen’s Diamond Jubilee in style? The Big Lunch is an initiative by the...

The YAB Meets Team v: ‘Singing in the Rain’ at the Covent Garden Hotel

The Youth Advisory Board (YAB) recently had the opportunity to meet Team v at the Covent Garden Hotel for a delightful event centered around the film classic, ‘Singing in the Rain’. Despite the pou...

A Breath of Fresh Air: Young People as Trustees At Vinspired, we are dedicated to integrating young people at all levels of our organization, empowering them to influence and guide our initiatives....

From Big Cuts to Big Society: The Voices of Young People Should be Heard

Big Society is a heated topic in politics, almost like the buzz around the latest trends. But while politicians debate young people’s role in the Big Society, what do 16-25 year olds think about th...

Hangout with Us LIVE from the vInspired National Awards!

Can’t Make it to the Roundhouse this Tuesday? Join Our Live Google Hangout! Join us as we bring the vInspired National Awards directly to your living room with an exciting live stream. Our team at ...

Can the Value of Experience Outweigh the Need for Qualifications?

In today’s world, many young individuals are questioning whether the cost of a university degree is justified by the potential job prospects it promises. With youth unemployment levels on the rise,...

Let’s Not Allow the Riots to Overshadow the Positive Contribution of Young People

The recent criminal behavior witnessed in our communities has been shocking and deeply concerning. However, it’s crucial that we resist making snap judgments about the causes of these riots. Our fi...

2012 vInspired National Awards Finalists Announced

The 2012 vInspired National Awards finalists have been announced, marking a celebration of inspirational young volunteers and youth workers across the country. These awards highlight those who exem...

Kindness Boomerang

When I was a child, my mum used to shop in Elphicks, a family-run department store in Farnham. While shopping could be mundane, Elphicks captivated me with its children’s sit-on toys—a well-loved s...

Getting Started in Film A little while ago, I attended an end-of-program event organized by a prominent youth-supporting organization. The program, titled “Get Started with Film,” offered young peo...

We Run This Day (Girls)!

International Women’s Day: Celebrating Empowerment and Gender Equality International Women’s Day (IWD) is a pivotal moment to celebrate women’s achievements and advocate for gender equality. As we ...

It’s Youth Takeover Day Every Day at Vinspired At Vinspired, every day feels like Youth Takeover Day, highlighting our commitment to placing young people at the core of our operations. Takeover Day...

Watch The Big Fix Live On itv.com!

The Big Fix, a dynamic initiative powered by Vinspired in collaboration with ITV, is set to light up London with a spectacular live TV show. Mark your calendars for Wednesday, 21st July, and get re...

Coin Street Supports Vinspired: A Community Partnership

In celebration of Volunteers’ Week, the Coin Street conference centre has chosen to support Vinspired by donating £1 per delegate for events held from 6th to 13th June. This initiative highlights t...

Can Co-Location of Youth Services Work?

The co-location of youth services presents an innovative approach to enhancing community service opportunities for youth. This concept involves multiple services sharing a single public space, such...

Emerging Insights: Team v’s Remarkable Impact

We are thrilled to collaborate with CFE to evaluate the profound impact of Team v, an initiative driven by socially conscious young people eager to make a difference. Team v empowers volunteers age...

The Anatomy Of Youth: Effective Citizens

In today’s interconnected world, young people stand at the forefront of civic engagement and volunteering, making significant strides in shaping the future. As part of Vinspired’s initiative, we de...

No Power Hour: Encouraging Eco-Friendly Fun for Young People

In today’s digital age, young people often find themselves glued to screens, spending nearly ten hours a day on mobile phones or playing computer games. A study by npower highlights that children s...

What Are You Doing for Kindness Day?

When was the last time you performed an act of kindness? Whether it was helping a neighbor with their shopping or donating to a cause, every small act can make a big difference. With Kindness Day U...

5 Key Takeaways from the Conservative Party Conference on Youth Volunteering Attending the 2016 Conservative Party Conference allowed us to champion the cause of youth volunteering, an essential dr...

vInspired Launches New Schools Programme in Birmingham

Bournville College is the first of our ambassador schools to receive a vInspired training workshop. As the launch of the new vInspired Schools Programme gets underway, we have been forging connecti...

Discover Volunteering Opportunities Beyond Vinspired

Have you been browsing Vinspired and found that nothing quite fits your interests right now? Perhaps you’re too young, or it’s simply a quiet time of year for your preferred volunteering category. ...

Learnings from Netroots UK 2012

On Saturday, I attended Netroots UK, the largest conference for grassroots campaigners focused on leveraging digital technologies to amplify their messages. This event aims to network and inspire a...

Reverse Riots: Empowering Youth to Shape Their Future

The media has often painted young people as the face of “Broken Britain,” characterized by stereotypes like ASBOs, hoodies, and irresponsible behavior. However, the Reverse Riots campaign is challe...

Empowering Our 24/24 Participants with a Helping Hand from Procter & Gamble

Giving time to share a skill or teach something new is one of the most rewarding forms of volunteering. Last week, this was evident at our office during a successful day of skills-sharing workshops...

V’s Robot Welcomed into the Houses of Parliament

Introducing a groundbreaking initiative, Vinspired has made history by placing a robot, aptly named “Voicebot,” into the esteemed halls of Parliament. This innovative move is designed to amplify th...

News on the V Evaluation

Welcome to our first comprehensive progress update on the V evaluation, shared via our blog. We are thrilled to announce that we’ve gathered significant insights from our initial round of grant rec...

3 Ways You Can Make a Difference to Your Community – Right Now, on Junction49

Are you aged between 13-25 and eager to make a positive impact in your community? Whether you’re looking for a significant project with a unique twist or something more light-hearted, there are num...

Celebrating Vinspired’s Impact: National Awards and Beyond

Vinspired is thrilled to announce the upcoming National Awards, an event dedicated to recognizing the outstanding contributions of our volunteers. This celebration honors those who have demonstrate...

A Day in the Life of a Youth Volunteering Deputy Manager

Embracing Leadership in Youth Volunteering A Youth Volunteering Deputy Manager plays a crucial role in fostering volunteering opportunities for young people. At Vinspired, we emphasize the importan...

National Awards: Celebrating the Inspiring Contribution of Young Volunteers

The Vinspired National Awards is a momentous occasion that highlights the remarkable achievements of young volunteers. This event is more than a mere date on the Vinspired calendar—it is a celebrat...

How a Volunteering Opportunity Found Through Vinspired Led to a Full-Time Job

Discover how a volunteering role can transform your career path! Mark, from Banbury, shares his journey from a voluntary intern to a full-time Community Collections Officer at RSPB Midlands. His st...

Big Society Award: Celebrating Innovative Volunteering for Social Impact The Big Society Award is a remarkable initiative under the Government’s Big Society policy, designed to honor groups, indivi...

Volunteering is the Business – So Treat It Like One

Vinspired recently hosted a round table with leaders from various industries to explore the impact of workplace volunteering on both businesses and employees. This gathering included figures from t...

Raising the Participation Age: Opening Up the Road Less Travelled?

What is Raising the Participation Age (RPA)? The concept of “Raising the Participation Age” (RPA) has been gaining attention recently and is poised to significantly impact young people. But what ex...

Go Global on Global Youth Service Day (GYSD) 2011 Are you free between 15 – 17 April 2011? Why not join the most exciting volunteering event of the year? Global Youth Service Day (GYSD) is your cha...

Glastonbury Playlist: The Soundtrack to Your Summer of Giving

Got Glastonbury fever? Whether you’re heading to the site or sitting it out this year, there’s no better way to embrace the festival spirit than by reliving some iconic moments through music. If yo...

How to Remove Expired Opportunities on Vinspired.com

Managing volunteer events through Vinspired is a seamless process, but ensuring outdated opportunities are removed is crucial for maintaining an organized presence. Here’s a step-by-step guide on h...

Why Do Something?

At Vinspired, we’re thrilled to announce the launch of Do Something in the UK, our latest program aimed at empowering young British social activists. The Do Something movement is a well-recognized ...

Statement on New Youth Unemployment Figures Youth unemployment has reached unprecedented levels, causing concern across communities. At Vinspired, we are acutely aware of this issue, as we constant...

Our Ideas for Social Action Projects to Change the World!

After a short break, vInspired Cashpoint is open for applications. Are you looking for inspiration on how to use £500 effectively in your community? We asked our team at Vinspired: “If you could ch...

Celebrate Our DJ Competition Winners with an Exclusive Fairsharemusic Playlist

We are thrilled to announce the release of an exclusive Fairsharemusic playlist in celebration of our recent DJ competition winners. This unique collection showcases the vibrant and creative spirit...

Introducing the New Youth Advisory Board

Welcome to the first blog post from the new Youth Advisory Board for 2011, known as v12. As young volunteers, we are passionate about making a difference and engaging in civic activities that foste...

Blue Dots for Volunteers

Volunteering through Vinspired offers an enriching experience, allowing you to gain valuable skills and feel great about your contributions. As a special token of appreciation, volunteers who have ...

Youth Advisory Board Update: Fears, Facts, and Fascination

Fears, Facts, and Fascination These three words perfectly encapsulate the recent public speaking training session held by Vinspired’s Youth Advisory Board in partnership with SpeakersTrust. Our goa...

Team v: A Life-Changing Volunteering Experience

Team v has been life-changing. I wish I could do it all again. One of our graduating Team v leaders shares why Team v has been such an unforgettable experience and why he’d recommend signing up for...

Ever Wanted To Be A Star?

Be Part of the #ReverseRiots Movement Have you ever aspired to be a star while making a significant impact in the world? Now is your chance! Join the #ReverseRiots campaign and help change the nega...

Are Young People Unfairly Treated by the Media?

“There’s goodness in the hearts of most of them, that you malign. They just want to dance and have some fun, have you forgotten what it’s like?” In today’s society, young volunteers are often subje...

An Olympic Legacy Participating in Vinspired has opened up incredible opportunities for me, from engaging with ministers at the NCVYS conference to interviewing candidates for roles like the commer...

An Enterprising Future

On November 10th, I had the opportunity to attend “An Enterprising Future,” an insightful event hosted by Social Enterprise UK and Community Matters. This event brought together various voluntary a...

Should the Older Generation Be Carrying the Burden of the Young?

With youth unemployment reaching alarming levels, now is the time to consider innovative solutions that can bridge the gap between generations. The question arises: should the older generation be c...

Team v Leaders Share Their Views on First Campaign

Our Team v Leaders are making waves with their inaugural mission to combat youth homelessness across the UK. This ambitious initiative integrates essential skills such as Teamwork & Collaboration, ...

Order Order

Exploring the dynamic world of politics can be an exhilarating experience, especially when you have the opportunity to shadow a Member of Parliament. Recently, I had the chance to shadow an MP in P...

A Big Week for Youth Policy as Government Makes Major Announcements

As we approach the end of the year, the Government is attempting to bring some festive cheer to young people—a much-needed gesture after a tough year. In recent weeks, the Government announced the ...

Young People and Business: Innovation Through Collaboration

Engaging young people in business innovation is crucial for driving growth and adapting to the ever-evolving market landscape. At Vinspired, we believe in harnessing the creativity and innovative p...

Blackberry & Apple Turnover: Putting the Important Things into Perspective

Wrapped up in our everyday routines, it often takes a chance event or an unexpected encounter with adversity to truly put the important things in life into perspective. It was pouring on Saturday, ...

5 Reasons Why Volunteers Make Great Entrepreneurs

Volunteers possess a unique mindset that aligns closely with the entrepreneurial spirit. Let’s explore five compelling reasons why volunteering can pave the way to entrepreneurial success. 1. Passi...

Big Mouth Has Launched!

Vinspired Unveils a New Platform for Social Change Vinspired is excited to announce the launch of Big Mouth, a dynamic platform designed to engage volunteers in meaningful discussions about social ...

Swing the Vote: Who Do I Vote For?

Understanding how to make a difference through volunteering is only the beginning. Now, it’s time to consider how you use your vote effectively to influence change. This guide will help you navigat...

SOG at Relentless Boardmasters 2010: Ending on a High

Welcome to an exciting recap of the Relentless Boardmasters 2010, a remarkable event filled with adventure, skill, and community spirit, organized in collaboration with the Summer of Give. This eve...

Volunteer of the Month for June

Celebrate the start of Volunteers’ Week by recognizing our latest Volunteer of the Month! These awards highlight the remarkable contributions of young volunteers nationwide. Meet Our Volunteer of t...

5 Reasons It’s Better to Volunteer at a Festival This Year

Paying to Get into a Festival? Think Again. The headliners for this year’s music festivals are being announced rapidly, and while tickets can skyrocket up to £200, we’re here to tell you that there...

Relive vInspired Live on Twitter and YouTube

Music, People, and Change at vInspired Live vInspired Live brought together hundreds of young people, showcasing the power of social media at the event of the summer. The event trended on Twitter t...

Vinspired Showcases Private Sector Philanthropy

Vinspired has successfully raised over £100 million with the private sector in the past four years to support young volunteers. This remarkable achievement was celebrated during a unique evening ev...

8 Career Paths That Can Be Kick-Started by Volunteering

Volunteering is an excellent way to build employment skills and explore potential career paths with minimal risk. In fact, three-quarters of employers surveyed believe that volunteering can positiv...

Ways Volunteers Can Still Get Involved in the Olympic Summer Celebrations

As far as sporting years go, Summer 2012 is nothing short of epic. The London 2012 Olympic & Paralympic Games are sure to be a once-in-a-lifetime experience for everyone across the country. It’s th...

Celebrate International Women’s Day with £500 to Boost Your CV

We have a whole host of female trailblazers to introduce you to… From leading a team to managing budgets, Vinspired Cashpoint offers you a unique chance to gain first-hand experience running your o...

Vinspired National Awards: Nominations Open

Do you know a young volunteer making a significant impact in their community? Someone who dedicates their time and effort to help others selflessly? If you do, we invite you to nominate them for th...

Our Young Researchers Are Ready to Go!

Our young researchers are ready to go! This initiative showcases the commitment of young volunteers aged 16-25 who are keen on enhancing their skills in data analysis, research, and teamwork. These...

The Anatomy of Youth: The Blunt Truth

Having read the first chapter of the Anatomy of Youth, “Perspectives of Youth,” these are my thoughts. I am often portrayed as a rebellious young adult, indulging in reckless behaviors, as depicted...

4 Ways Volunteering Can Make You Happy When You’re Sad

Volunteering: A Remedy for the Monday Blues Feeling down or overwhelmed? Volunteering might be your key to happiness. Not only does it provide a sense of purpose, but it also offers numerous mental...

4 Ways to Get Your Campaign into the Media

Organizing an impactful campaign is crucial, but ensuring it garners the attention it deserves can be challenging. Whether you’re passionate about fundraising strategies for volunteer projects, aim...

Find Out What #LoveIs This Valentine’s Day

Valentine’s Day often evokes one of two feelings: a warm, fuzzy sense of affection or a somewhat queasy “sick-in-mouth” sensation. This year, Vinspired encourages you to set aside your indifference...

6 Perfect Opportunities to Do Good During Student Volunteering Week

University is an important time to volunteer. When you leave full-time education, employers want to see what you did with your time. That means joining societies, internships, and doing meaningful ...

4 Ways vInspired Talent Boosted My Career

No Idea What Career Path You’re Interested In? Or What Skills You Need? Unlike a traditional course or apprenticeship, with vInspired Talent, you don’t need to know. This 24-week placement program ...

Celebrate Volunteers’ Week 2010

Volunteers’ Week 2010 is a national celebration dedicated to recognizing the incredible contributions of volunteers across the UK. Officially held from June 1st to 7th, this annual event encourages...

‘I Know More Than I Thought!’ by Dillon, Peer Researcher Hello, I’m Dillon, and I’m thrilled to share my journey as a peer researcher at NatCen. I embarked on this adventure to connect with diverse...

Oh, What a Night (and Day)!

Last Thursday, the Vinspired team traded their usual desks for a day of environmental volunteering at Camley Street Natural Park in King’s Cross. Equipped with slacks and hiking boots, we spent the...

14 Inspirational Autistic Schoolgirls Volunteering to Make a Difference

Understanding Autism in Girls Did you know that girls are often diagnosed with autism later than boys? This delay can make school challenging for autistic students, as they might not begin managing...

Engage Volunteers with Pokémon Go!

If you’ve been online recently, you’ve likely noticed the buzz around Pokémon Go. This app has taken the world by storm, becoming the most downloaded app, surpassing even Twitter and Tinder. Many b...

Embracing the Big Society: Youth Volunteering with Vinspired

Vinspired is thrilled to announce the launch of the Big Society Youth Inquiry, spearheaded by our team to harness the vibrant discussions around young people’s roles in this transformative initiati...

Inspirational Autistic Schoolgirls Volunteer to Tell It Like It Is

Did You Know Girls Are Diagnosed with Autism Later Than Boys? Girls are often diagnosed with autism later than boys, which can lead to struggles during their formative years without understanding w...

Four Reasons to Download Our vInspired App

Taking up a volunteer placement from the palm of your hand just got even easier. If you’re looking for a volunteer placement, you’re already generously giving up some of your time to help a communi...

Christmas Comes Early for Our Regional vInspired Award Winners

Exciting news! As we gear up for the 2012 vInspired National Awards, our esteemed judging panel has meticulously selected winners from hundreds of nominees across various regions. These annual awar...

Kilimanjaro, PDPs and a Summer of a Lifetime? Must be the NCS Youth Advisory Group!

The NCS Summer of a Lifetime Youth Advisory Group recently held its second meeting, delivering on the promise of an engaging agenda. The session kicked off with a fun icebreaker called “Two Facts a...

vInspired’s Perspective on Labour’s Proposed Changes to Jobseekers Allowance

vInspired presents a critical perspective on Labour’s proposed amendments to Jobseekers Allowance (JSA) for young people. In light of Labour’s plans to cut benefits for those not engaged in trainin...

Go Global with Global Youth Service Day This April Are you ready to be a part of the largest and longest-running annual day of volunteering? From April 20 to 22, 2012, here’s your opportunity to pu...

The Nitty-Gritty of Volunteering

During the winter months, while many prefer to stay indoors, there’s a dedicated group of volunteers who take to the streets, ensuring community safety by spreading grit on snowy paths. This initia...

vInspired Pops Up for a Cause at the 2013 Party Conferences

vInspired is set to champion youth social action at the 2013 Party Conferences. Our interactive fringe event, ‘Pop-up for a Cause,’ will take place in the Youth Zone at both the Labour Party Confer...

Your Daily Dose of ‘Fantasy Therapy’ for World Book Night

Storytelling has been a cornerstone of human culture for centuries. In a world saturated with television and online content, traditional stories in the form of books are often overlooked. However, ...

4 Reasons Why People Volunteer - What’s Yours?

Volunteering isn’t just an activity; it’s a lifestyle that enriches both the giver and the receiver. Whether you’re volunteering for personal growth, fun, or to make a difference, the reasons are a...

How Young People Believe the Media Treats Them We recently visited Oxford Circus to ask young people about their perceptions of media portrayals. Here’s what they shared regarding their experiences...

Defending the Wealthy? Our Thoughts on the Row About Tax Avoidance

George Osborne’s budget speech highlighted the boast of some high earners who claim they pay less in tax than their cleaners. The government has announced a cap on tax reliefs to crack down on so-c...

Be Your Own Hero with Team v

Are You Ready to Ignite Change in Your Community? Join Team v, our dynamic leadership program, and develop invaluable skills that will enrich your CV while making a tangible difference in your comm...

Become Your Own Boss: How to Get Started When You Don’t Know Where to Begin

Many young people dream of becoming their own boss but often don’t know where to start. This journey is entirely possible with the right mindset and resources to follow your dreams and do what you ...

Introducing Volunteer of the Month: May’s Award-Winner!

Cydney Butler, a dedicated Peer Educator at Brook in Milton Keynes, is celebrated as our Volunteer of the Month. At 23, she is making significant strides in volunteering for young people, focusing ...

Making New Year’s Resolutions with Vinspired

January marks a fresh beginning, a time to reassess and set new goals. At Vinspired, our team is embracing this spirit with commitments ranging from healthier lifestyle choices to engaging in meani...

A Letter of Thanks from Seb Coe

We are thrilled to share a heartwarming letter from Seb Coe, the Chairman of the London Organising Committee of the 2012 Olympic Games, expressing his gratitude for our support in the Young Games M...

The Day I Met Cameron: A Story of Courage and Inspiration

Let me tell you about the time I met Cameron—not David Cameron, but another Cameron whose story is inspiring in its own right. Recently, I attended the ‘For Youth’s Sake’ seminar at the Abbey Centr...

INFOGRAPHIC: Reasons Why You Should Join Team v Team v Needs You! Vinspired is actively seeking talented individuals aged 18-25 to become a part of Team v, our dynamic 100-strong national leadershi...

vInspired Teams Up with Creative Collisions

vInspired has once again joined forces with a host of youth organizations for Creative Collisions, a dynamic one-day conference dedicated to fostering innovative approaches to youth support. This e...

Why I’ve Pledged My Support for This Country’s Inspiring Young Volunteers

Volunteering is a powerful way to foster community support and civic engagement. Recently, I had the opportunity to witness the incredible impact of youth volunteering at the Vinspired National Awa...

National Awards: Empowering Young Volunteers to Shape Our Future

As the curtains fell on the inspiring and emotional National Awards Ceremony, a palpable energy filled the room. Our CEO delivered a heartfelt message, not only to those present but to young people...

New Look Volunteer Profile

Enhance Your Volunteering Experience Recently, we reached out to you for feedback on how we can enhance your volunteering experience. One significant request was to simplify the process of logging ...

July’s Volunteer Hero

Celebrating Volunteering and Making a Difference 1. How does it feel to be our Volunteer of the Month winner? I’m more than shocked to be honest! 2. Tell me about your volunteering? I began volunte...

How Your Volunteering Experience Can Help You Get Into University

Volunteering is increasingly recognized as a powerful way to develop essential skills that can enhance both your university application and your future career. Universities, like employers, are beg...

New Podcast: How to Improve Your Mental Health and Beat Exam Stress

1 in 10 children face mental health challenges, and this statistic worsens with age, affecting 1 in 4 adults in the UK. Addressing the mental health crisis is crucial, and Vinspired is here to help...

Acting Local, Going Global for Global Youth Service Day

Global Youth Service Day (GYSD) is a unique opportunity for young people to make a difference in their local communities while being part of a global movement. This annual campaign, celebrated from...

Team V Crew on the Road

Wow, it’s been a busy couple of weeks for the Team V Crew! We’ve been immersed in fresher and volunteer fairs, and our feet haven’t touched the ground. Our mission? To spread the word about our new...

A Greater Focus on Entrepreneurship is Needed to Tackle Youth Unemployment

As new figures show small signs of abatement in youth unemployment levels, it is crucial that we focus on developing entrepreneurship skills among young people. With over one million youth currentl...

A Little Help from Our Friends

vInspired has formed a dynamic partnership with Dixons Retail’s technology brand, Goji. This collaboration exemplifies how strategic alliances can enhance brand visibility and community impact, par...

Team v Leaders: We’ve Discovered Who We Really Are

“This bunch of people coming together… this union that came up from Team v. The idea that we can actually go out there and keep doing something for the community. Honestly, I’m just grateful that I...

vInspired Chair of Trustees Honored with Knighthood

We are thrilled to congratulate the Chair of our Board, on being awarded a knighthood. Since the inception of vInspired, he has played a pivotal role in transforming the platform from the Russell C...

We Believe in the Entrepreneurial Potential of All Young People. Do You?

At Vinspired, we are passionate about harnessing the entrepreneurial potential of young people. Our mission is to shift the narrative on youth unemployment by fostering entrepreneurial skills and e...

Help Us Support More Young People to Fulfil Their Potential

The power of volunteering for young people is immense, offering them opportunities to earn digital awards and recognition. At Vinspired, we celebrate this through the annual National Awards, highli...

Buy Beautiful Artwork and Support Youth Initiatives with Vinspired

Do you have a passion for art? If so, you’ll be thrilled to learn about our collaboration with Art for Charity, offering a unique opportunity to acquire stunning artwork while supporting Vinspired....

Share Your Tips About Evaluation

Evaluating volunteer projects is a crucial aspect of ensuring effective impact and continuous improvement. At Vinspired, we believe in sharing knowledge and strategies to enhance our collective eff...

4Music and Vinspired Take Care of Summer

We’ve taken care of Christmas, now let’s Take Care of Summer! Working with our partner, 4Music, the UK’s number one music TV channel, and organizations where Vinspired members volunteer, we’ve cura...

Boosting Teen Enterprise

Empowering the next generation of entrepreneurs is vital for fostering innovation and economic growth. This week, the launch of TeenBiz, an enterprise program for 13-18-year-olds with innovative bu...

Experience Festivals for Free through Volunteering!

As the chill of winter fades and the promise of summer approaches, the excitement for festival season builds. At Vinspired, we have thrilling opportunities that allow you to experience festivals fo...

Vinspired iPhone App Shortlisted for a Prestigious Award

We are thrilled to announce that the Vinspired iPhone app has been shortlisted for the Best Use of Technology award by the Charity Times. This recognition highlights our commitment to leveraging te...

Creating Employee Volunteering Opportunities – Free Regional Workshops

Are you looking to maximize the potential of a skilled volunteer workforce available during working hours? Whether you aim to leverage the expertise of professionals for your community project or s...

Expanding Volunteering Opportunities for 14-25 Year Olds

Vinspired is excited to announce the expansion of our volunteering opportunities to include a younger age group, specifically 14 and 15-year-olds. This change, effective from October 12th, 2011, al...

Young People Give Their Views to Riots Panel

On October 24th, the Independent Riots Communities and Victims Panel, established by the government, engaged in an open and honest discussion with young people from Vinspired, Young Advisors, and C...

Positive Publicity = Positive Perceptions The Positive for Youth event was a dynamic gathering of around 150 young people, keen to voice their perspectives and refine the Department for Education’s...

Join the One Million Hours Campaign with Vinspired and Radio 1

Be Part of #1MillionHours This Christmas, Radio 1 and 1Xtra are launching an inspiring year-long campaign to accumulate one million hours of volunteering across the UK. Even their presenters will b...

A Day in the Life of a Vinspired Youth Advisory Board Member Last week, our Youth Advisory Board (YAB) was called upon to lend a hand in preparing for the upcoming Team V induction weekend. As a pr...

The Power of Speech: Harnessing Technology for Greater Impact

“Here I am, brain the size of a planet, and they ask me to pick up a piece of paper.” This quote from Hitchhiker’s Guide to the Galaxy inspired my reflections this week. It’s fascinating to conside...

Turning Conventional Thinking on Its Head

This morning, I attended the Local Government Conference chaired by the Leader of the Council at London Borough of Merton. Among the speakers was the new Chair of the National LEP Network, who shar...

Unity, Love, and Glitter: vInspired at Pride Celebrating Diversity and Empowerment at Pride 2016 vInspired proudly marched at Pride 2016, and it was a spectacular celebration of diversity and unity...

Kimberly Wyatt’s Dance Masterclass: A Sneak Peek into the Vinspired National Awards

What would an awards night be without an electrifying dance performance to set the stage ablaze? This week, we had the privilege of visiting the renowned Pineapple Dance Studios in Covent Garden. H...

Exploring the Convenience of Ukash for Online Transactions In today’s digital era, many individuals prefer shopping online to acquire goods quickly and efficiently. This convenience significantly r...

Tune in to vInspired Live! Didn’t snap up a ticket to vInspired Live? Grab the popcorn and tune in online! You applied for tickets to the event of the summer in your thousands, and they’ve now been...

A Big Week for Youth Policy

As we reach the end of the year, the Government is attempting to bring some festive cheer to young people, and let’s face it, they need it. It’s been a tough year, and the future doesn’t seem much ...

First Annual Report Coming Soon Happy New Year! We’ve been a bit quiet on the evaluation blog lately because we’ve been focused on writing our first annual evaluation report. It’s been a challenge ...

Volunteering: Why Do It? Insights from Peer Researcher

Volunteering offers a spectrum of experiences and benefits, especially for young people. As Fareeda, a Peer Researcher, shares, the journey of volunteering is both diverse and enriching. Having vol...

Top Summer 2012 Festival Volunteering Opportunities!

Check out our latest video, showcasing this summer’s top festival volunteering opportunities. Seize the chance to experience festivals while giving back to the community! Holiday Volunteer Opportun...

How Our Team v Leaders Have Inspired Children Through Storytelling

Last weekend, our incredible Team v leaders celebrated their graduation with an inspiring and emotional ceremony in London. These leaders have been pivotal in inspiring children through the power o...

Save the Date: Creative Collisions Conference

Join Vinspired at the Creative Collisions Conference! Vinspired is excited to announce its partnership with leading youth organizations to host the Creative Collisions Conference, a premier event f...

Volunteer of the Month - May 2014

Celebrating Outstanding Volunteers Amira Haque is our Volunteer of the Month for May 2014, recognized for her exceptional contributions as a Team v Leader. She has excelled in recruiting new volunt...

7 Quotes to Get You Through Results Day

Results day can be a rollercoaster of emotions. Whether you’ve aced your exams or faced unexpected challenges, it’s important to remember that this is just one step on your journey. Here are seven ...

Vinspired is Going Global

Vinspired is taking its mission to the next level by expanding globally. For the past two years, Vinspired has been at the forefront of launching innovative social action campaigns as the UK partne...

A Heartfelt Thank You to Our Vinspired Community

As we step into a brand new year, it’s a perfect time to reflect on the past and express our gratitude to the countless organizations that make Vinspired possible. Without your unwavering dedicatio...

Response to the Government’s Payment by Results Scheme for NEETs Announcement Under new plans announced, programs will reward organizations for assisting unemployed young people into work or traini...

vInspired at Creative Collisions Join the Movement at Creative Collisions vInspired is thrilled to announce its participation in the upcoming Creative Collisions conference, a pivotal event for you...

Vinspired National Award Winner Makes Headlines

As the much-anticipated Vinspired National Awards approach, excitement is building. Set for March 17th at Indigo2, the event will celebrate the remarkable contributions of England’s most inspiring ...

What is the National Citizen Service and How is Vinspired Getting Involved?

The National Citizen Service (NCS) is an innovative government initiative designed to empower young individuals, primarily those aged 16, by offering them a platform to engage in summer residential...

Radio 1’s ‘Big Conversation’

Radio 1’s ‘Big Conversation’ recently brought more than 100 young people to City Hall to discuss issues impacting youth across the UK. With an audience of 11.7 million daily listeners, Radio 1 poss...

Want to Change the World? Join Team v!

Are you enthusiastic, creative, and ready for a challenge? Do you have a passion for social change and want to make a difference? Team v might be the opportunity you’ve been looking for! What is Te...

Team v Crew on the Road! Wow, it’s been an exhilarating few weeks for the Team v Crew, as we’ve been immersed in the vibrant atmosphere of fresher and volunteer fairs across the UK. Our mission? To...

Volunteering Works: Access a Whole New Pool of Volunteers

At Vinspired, our mission is to make volunteering accessible to everyone, empowering individuals to contribute their skills to benefit community organizations. Our platform, Vinspired.com, is evolv...

V Goes Back to School

Vinspired is thrilled to announce the launch of an innovative school community action programme in collaboration with the Department for Children, Schools and Families. This initiative is set to bu...

What Would You Like to See V Do in 2010?

What a week! It’s only Wednesday, yet I’m already contemplating investing in matchsticks to keep my eyes open. It’s been a whirlwind due to an intense weekend in sunny Edinburgh, followed by an ear...

Is It That Time Already?!

Easter is just around the corner, which means it’s time for Jemima to indulge in chocolate once again, following a forty-day hiatus. But that’s not the only exciting news this season! Introducing t...

Gabriella Cilmi Launches the Vinspired 2010 National Awards

The Vinspired 2010 National Awards have been officially launched with an unforgettable event featuring the talented Gabriella Cilmi. This exciting occasion not only celebrated the achievements of p...

Natwest OSCA’s 2010: Celebrating Outstanding Service to Cricket

Delve into the thrilling world of cricket volunteering as we recap the prestigious Natwest OSCA’s 2010 event held at the iconic Lord’s Cricket Ground. This annual celebration acknowledges the incre...

Get Involved in the 2012 Olympic Celebrations

Do you want to plan a celebration for the 2012 Olympic Games? The London Organising Committee of the Olympic and Paralympic Games (LOCOG) provides all the tools and resources you need to make your ...

8 Reasons to Apply for Team v

Join the Next Generation of Social Leaders Calling all 18-25-year-olds! Vinspired is searching for enthusiastic and motivated young individuals to join Team v, a leadership program designed to deve...

Star Awards Provider - Youth Action Wiltshire

Celebrating Young Volunteers with Vinspired Awards Our Star Awards Providers are organizations that consistently recognize their volunteers through the Vinspired Awards. This month, we’re excited t...

Teachers Embrace Social Action: A Key to Youth Engagement

In an exciting development, it’s clear: teachers love social action! A recent survey reveals that nearly all primary and secondary teachers in England recognize the immense value of students engagi...

From Volunteer to Young Trustee - A Journey of Empowerment

Igniting the Passion Volunteering for young people is not just an activity; it’s a transformative journey. My own path was ignited at the tender age of twelve, driven by a passion to empower young ...

Go ON Give an Hour

In today’s digital age, having basic internet skills is essential for employment and day-to-day activities. Did you know that the average household can save a significant amount of money each year ...

Team v’s Food Poverty Campaign Gets a Parliamentary Push

Team v’s food poverty campaign has successfully gained momentum, receiving crucial support from influential figures. The initiative, focused on addressing food poverty, particularly during the Chri...

Do You Know a London-Based Volunteer Superstar? Awards season is upon us, bringing with it the excitement of The Globes, the Oscars, and, most importantly, the vInspired National Awards. Joining th...

Exciting Leadership Change at Vinspired: New Chairman Appointed

We are thrilled to announce the appointment of our new Chairman, enhancing our leadership team at Vinspired. On November 8, 2012, David Frost CBE formally assumed his role, bringing a wealth of exp...

Gaming for Good: Introducing Vinspired’s Purple Ninja Can Gamification Empower Young People to Make a Difference? At Vinspired, we believe in the transformative power of gamification to motivate yo...

vKriya’s Crisis Christmas: Making a Difference This Holiday Season

Happy New Year! I hope everyone enjoyed the festive period as much as I did. Not only did I receive generous gifts from Santa (yes, I still believe!), but I also had the opportunity to give back th...

NCS Summer of a Lifetime Youth Advisory Group Meetup

Get Ready for an Unforgettable Summer Experience Our first NCS Summer of a Lifetime Youth Advisory Group meeting was an exciting start to an incredible journey. The day began with the ‘Balloon Game...

The Winner of Our Exclusive Goji Headphones Launch Party Competition Is…

We’re thrilled to announce the winner of our Goji headphones launch party competition is Kirsty Liddle! Kirsty, 23, from Kingston, and a guest will attend the exclusive launch party for Tinchy Stry...

National Youth Work Week @ Vinspired

National Youth Work Week at Vinspired is a pivotal period dedicated to celebrating the contributions of young people in shaping vibrant communities through volunteering. From October 31st to Novemb...

Why Do You Volunteer?

Volunteering during the festive season is a rewarding experience. Like thousands of others, I dedicated my time over Christmas and found it incredibly fulfilling. In fact, it was the best part of m...

Volunteering vs Personal Growth: Can the Lines be Blurred?

Volunteering vs personal growth: can the lines be blurred? This concept challenges the traditional views on volunteering, suggesting it’s more than just a community service. A recent Vinspired poll...

Check into Our CV Clinic

Empowering Youth with Employment & Skills Our innovative platform is dedicated to bringing paid employment opportunities to young people, addressing the challenge of youth unemployment. With over 1...

Building Character

There is growing interest in the political and policy importance of certain personal attributes, particularly emotional control, empathy, application to task, personal agency, and the ability to de...

vTalent Year Graduation: Celebrating Young Volunteers

Welcome to a heartwarming tale of dedication, community, and celebration. Settle in with a warm cup of tea as we take you through the inspiring journey of the vTalent Year Graduation, an event that...

Goodbyes and Hellos!

Afternoon all, vJemima here! Not to start on a somber note, but it is indeed a sad day, folks! You might be wondering why. Well, my dear blog readers, after 18 wonderful months of crafting blogs fo...

Mistajam Interviewed by Vinspired’s Lake Of Stars

Matt from Vinspired’s Lake Of Stars had the opportunity to catch up with the man of the moment, DJ Mistajam from BBC Radio 1, ahead of his headlining performance at the Lake Of Stars festival in Ma...

The Meaning of Volunteering: A Personal Perspective

Exploring Diverse Volunteering Experiences Volunteering holds different meanings for different individuals. As a dedicated member of the peer research group, I’ve delved into discourse analysis to ...

How We Made Sure the 2012 National Awards Were Truly Powered by Young Volunteers

vInspired is dedicated to providing young people with opportunities to engage in meaningful volunteer work that aligns with their passions. At the 2012 vInspired National Awards ceremony, we had th...

Get £750 for Your Community Project with Disney Friends for Change!

Are you passionate about making a lasting, positive impact in your community? Do you have a creative idea for a local project? Vinspired, in collaboration with Disney and Youth Service America, off...

Volunteer of the Month - September 2014

This Month’s Star Volunteer This month’s star volunteer, Alfie Button, showcases how rewarding volunteering can be, regardless of age. Our blogger discovered more about this determined 14-year-old’...

Make Your Own Opportunity with vInspired Cashpoint

Are you a young person looking to make a difference in your community? If you’re under 18 and struggling to find the right volunteering opportunity, it’s time to take action. With the vInspired Cas...

#at25: Showcasing the Achievements of Young People

The Debate Over Minimum Wage for Under 25s Recent announcements have sparked debate as government minister Matthew Hancock declared that individuals under 25 will not receive the same new, higher m...

Star Awards Provider - Catch22 North East

Catch22 North East has been recognized as an outstanding Star Awards Provider by Vinspired for their incredible efforts in delivering the National Citizen Service (NCS) and supporting young volunte...

Acts of Kindness Will Make 2017 a Better Year

Acts of kindness are powerful catalysts for change, and at Vinspired, we believe in their transformative potential. Discover how you can make a difference through volunteering by tuning into our la...

Star Awards Provider - Envision Birmingham

Behind the scenes of the vInspired Awards are numerous brilliant organisations. These organisations make it possible for you to volunteer in your area and earn rewards for dedicating your time. Thi...

5 Top Tips to Reward Young Volunteers

Reward Your Volunteers – They Deserve It! Working with volunteers at your organization or on a project? Wondering how to express a heartfelt thank you for their dedication? Don’t worry, we have you...

Young volunteers become peer researchers for the Team v programme

Young volunteers become peer researchers for the Team v programme We asked Rebecca Lee and Sarah Neat, from research consultancy, CFE, to talk us through how they put young participants at the hear...

5 John Lennon Quotes About Making a Change

John Lennon, a legendary figure from one of the most influential bands of all time, was deeply committed to advocating peace, equality, and love. Today, we celebrate his enduring legacy by highligh...