PDSA - first national IiV Achiever

PRESS RELEASE

16 October 2007

For immediate release

PDSA first national charity to achieve volunteering quality standard

Leading veterinary charity PDSA is the first UK-wide organisation to be awarded the Investing in Volunteers (IiV) quality mark. It brings to 200 the total number of bodies that have achieved the standard which demonstrates an organisation’s commitment to volunteer management.

Research by Aston Business School revealed that organisations achieving IiV enjoyed a greater profile for volunteering, both internally and externally. Other benefits included improved volunteer recruitment and fundraising, and a more proactive approach to risk assessments and diversity.

Janet Compton, Head of Volunteering at PDSA, said:

“PDSA has really benefited from the process involved in working towards IiV - gaining the standard was just the icing on the cake! Presenting our business case for taking part in IiV ensured buy in at all levels. Everyone who took part said they enjoyed it and felt good at having been involved. I would recommend the process to any organisation that’s serious about getting the best out of their volunteers and making sure they’re achieving best practice in all areas.”

Sonet Geyer, Marketing and Operations Manager for Investing in Volunteers at Volunteering England, said:

“I’m delighted that PDSA has become the first national organisation to join the IiV Achievers’ Club. The commitment of the managers will inspire their volunteers, who in turn will pass on that enthusiasm and professionalism to the people who benefit from their time and efforts. PDSA is truly deserving of the award and I hope it will further their volunteers’ sense of pride in the organisation and its work.”

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