An initiative of in association with Sue Cross and Nick Ockenden Perspectives on volunteering and University Lifelong Learning across Europe

Introduction Workshop aim: -To provide an overview of university - volunteering collaboration across Europe -To explore the barriers and opportunities in developing ULLL- volunteering interaction What do we mean by University Lifelong Learning (ULLL)? What do we mean by volunteering organisations? What do we mean by collaboration / interaction?

The picture across Europe Based on National Reports from 8 countries Discusses the level of interaction between ULLL and volunteering organisations Presents some working models to describe different interactions Interested in feedback on the models, and sharing experiences A lot of interaction Very little interaction

A lot of interaction Spain, UK Multiple examples of different types of interaction -Accreditation for employees of voluntary organisations and volunteers -Courses and modules on voluntary sector management -Training for volunteers

Characteristics Volunteering often a highly popular activity -Often a long history of volunteering -Voluntary sector undergoing professionalisation Government often highly supportive of volunteering ULLL is well established in universities -Often focused on vocational training (e.g. linked to employability) Challenges often focused on problems with funding and structural issues within universities

Some interaction Austria, Italy, Slovakia Some interaction between universities and volunteering organisations is present -Interaction most commonly focused on student volunteering (e.g. student work placements in volunteering organisations) -Training for volunteers -Courses about voluntary sector management

Characteristics Volunteering often popular and increasing Government support for volunteering varies -Historical / cultural influences can be important ULLL present but often not popular -Regional variation and interaction dependent on individuals -Universities often lack funding Government does support ULLL -but often in the developmental process Limited awareness of the contribution of volunteering to skills

More limited interaction Poland, Slovenia, Turkey Limited or no interaction between universities and volunteering organisations -Interaction largely confined to student volunteering -Includes some accreditation of volunteering (e.g. University of the Third Age) and courses open to volunteers

Characteristics Lower levels of volunteering -But a sense that there is potential for growth Limited government support for volunteering Limited awareness of how volunteering can contribute to learning outcomes -But recent trends towards growing awareness of volunteering and recognition of its value

Factors affecting level of interaction Popularity of volunteering -Extent of government support (i.e. legislation) – but is this good? -Historical and cultural factors Extent to which the link between volunteering and learning is appreciated and understood Enthusiasm and interest of individuals within universities Extent of mutual awareness (between universities and volunteering organisations) Level of funding

Discussion and questions How well do the models describe the situation across Europe? Does this reflect your experience? Is there anything else to add?