Volunteering changes lives — and now we have the evidence to show it!

Volunteering changes lives — and now we have the evidence to show it!

We’re delighted to share the findings of an independent evaluation of Orchardville’s Volunteer Inclusion Project (VIP), which supported people with learning disabilities and autism to volunteer, develop new skills and play an active role in their communities.

Over three years, the project achieved some fantastic results:

• 434 people supported into volunteering opportunities.
• 84 organisations opened their doors to volunteers.
• 99% of participants surveyed reported increased confidence.
• 94% reported feeling more connected to their community.
• 97% reported increased happiness.

But behind every statistic is a person gaining confidence, making friends, learning new skills and discovering what they can achieve.

The evaluation also highlights the positive impact our volunteers have had on local organisations — helping to challenge perceptions, break down barriers and build more inclusive communities.

A huge thank you to our participants, families, carers, volunteer hosts, staff and funders who helped make VIP such a success.