Somerset's Vision for Volunteering

We want to see a future where volunteering is easily accessible, more inclusive and truly valued in Somerset communities.

Volunteering for Health and developing a Vision

We’re proud to be one of 15 areas in the UK to receive funding to strengthen volunteering as part of the local health and care system.

Whether health is your organisation’s main focus or not, your volunteers are already helping people live healthier, more connected lives. This programme is helping shape a shared Vision for Volunteering across Somerset.

What we're doing

We’re investing in community-led volunteering by supporting local organisations, building partnerships, developing new opportunities, sharing learning and testing new approaches.

Why it matters

Volunteering improves health and wellbeing, reduces isolation and builds stronger, more resilient communities. It also helps people access support earlier, easing pressure on health and care services.

Our approach

We’re working with VCFSE organisations, the NHS, local councils and communities to design solutions, informed by research like our Volunteering in Somerset report, feedback from our 2025 celebration event, and our place-based pilot projects in Frome and Wincanton.