Bluebell Wood recently welcomed a University of Sheffield student to support our Volunteering Team.

Sociology student, Sara, joined Bluebell Wood on an internship gaining insight into volunteer recruitment. 

Sara supported the team by researching challenges the charity sector faces when recruiting volunteers, gathering valuable diversity data insights and recommending ways to remove barriers potential volunteers face when looking for a role. 

Sara said: "My internship at Bluebell Wood has been a good opportunity to apply the knowledge and skills I gained from my sociology course while supporting the team with current sector challenges like volunteer recruitment and retention.

"After conducting an online survey I was able to dig deeper into charity volunteering and give recommendations for future recruitment practices.

"Collaborating with staff in Volunteering, Fundraising and Communications Teams was helpful and it was valuable to analyse volunteering recruitment from multiple perspectives.

"My internship at Bluebell Wood and the data visualisation, presentation and research skills I developed will benefit me as I work towards a career in the charity sector. 

"Bluebell Wood is providing children and families with support and care in the most difficult times and the volunteers that give up their time to support sibling sessions, keep the hospice running and fundraise are invaluable to the hospice.

"I hope to find a job where I can continue working to make volunteering more accessible in all communities."

Volunteer Services Manager, Collette Gibson, said: "It was a pleasure to welcome Sara to the Volunteering Team.

"She supported us to gain valuable insight into any potential barriers individuals may face when looking to volunteer for Bluebell Wood. Her research and findings were so helpful and we're looking forward to putting them into action.

"Sara was an asset to the Volunteering Team and we're looking forward to seeing her progress."