A pilot project to deliver training for managers of volunteers is currently underway in Kirkwall, Orkney, organised by Voluntary Action Orkney.

The Diploma in Volunteering Management has been developed jointly by Volunteer Development Scotland (VDS) and the University of Dundee. It provides an accredited course for managers and co-ordinators of volunteer programmes and forms part of the University of Dundee's BA in professional development.

This is the first time that the opportunity has become available in Orkney. 

The diploma includes five modules, studied over two years. Two tutors, from VDS and University of Dundee, will travel to Orkney to facilitate workshops at the start of each module. The tutors will continue to support and develop the students throughout their training. 

Voluntary Action Orkney (VAO) initially contacted a number of local organisations which use the services of volunteers to assess the level of interest for the development opportunity. Seven managers from within the voluntary sector subsequently decided to undertake the diploma to help develop their leadership skills. 

Orkney Enterprise contributed £3,767 towards the costs, with LEADER+ providing £6,280 to help fund the programme. 

VAO's Volunteer Centre promotes and develops volunteering in Orkney with the overall aim of strengthening communities through fostering community leadership and confidence. They recruit volunteers to local organisations and believe training is an effective way of developing community skills, as VAO's Gail Anderson explains:

"Volunteers managers need support and encouragement, and appropriate training is essential for them to develop their skills and to network with other managers. This course has been arranged as a pilot and will be using a mix of face-to-face delivery and technology. We are delighted that Orkney Enterprise and LEADER+ are helping to fund the innovative delivery of this programme in Orkney."

Chessa Llewellyn-White, community development manager with Orkney Enterprise was pleased to offer support for the project. She said: "These courses fill an identified gap in training provision for managers of volunteers as well as supporting our aim to increase skills and develop community strengths, leadership and confidence."