The first book of its kind, this volume brings together a range of experts to review key methodological issues in the study of voluntary action, charitable behaviour and participation in voluntary organisations. Using case studies from around the world - from ethnography to media analysis and surveys to peer research - chapters illustrate the challenges of researching altruistic actions and our conceptualisations of them. Across different fields and methods, authors unpick the methodological innovations and challenges in their own research to help guide future study. Demystifying research and deepening our ability to understand the role of the third sector, this accessible book is suitable for social researchers at all levels.

EPDF and EPUB available Open Access under CC-BY licence. The COVID-19 pandemic transformed the landscape of voluntary action. Some volunteering projects had to be paused, while others were delivered in different ways, but across all four UK nations large numbers of people began volunteering for the first time. This book provides an overview of the constraints and opportunities of mobilising voluntary action across the four UK nations during the pandemic. Sector experts and academics examine the divergent voluntary action policy frameworks adopted, the state and non-state supported volunteer responses, the changes in the profile of volunteers and the plans to sustain their involvement. This book addresses the urgent policy and practice need for evidence-based considerations to support recovery from the pandemic and to prepare for future emergencies.

The first book of its kind, this volume brings together a range of experts to review key methodological issues in the study of voluntary action, charitable behaviour and participation in voluntary organisations. Using case studies from around the world - from ethnography to media analysis and surveys to peer research - chapters illustrate the challenges of researching altruistic actions and our conceptualisations of them. Across different fields and methods, authors unpick the methodological innovations and challenges in their own research to help guide future study. Demystifying research and deepening our ability to understand the role of the third sector, this accessible book is suitable for social researchers at all levels.

How do you make the most of the volunteers who give their time to your organisation? Engaging people, giving them a great experience and balancing the needs of your organisation is an essential skill. These are the key strategic issues covered in this comprehensive guide for recruiting, selecting, involving and rewarding volunteers effectively.Ensure you get it right by gaining from the knowledge and experience gathered in this single volume by leaders in their field. This guide captures the essential information anyone managing volunteers. If you've just been given responsibility for volunteers in addition to your main role, or you're a dedicated Volunteer Manager, this book is for you. It will also be useful for other management and senior management roles to understand the work involved in effectively engaging volunteers. It includes: * Current trends in volunteering and how to make the most of current opportunities * How to match the right volunteers to the right roles * Creating a comprehensive volunteering programme * Measuring the impact of volunteering in meeting your aims * How to improve strategy and working relationships for your organisation.