The SVP relies on the support of its volunteers. More members are needed to ensure that its work continues to grow and flourish. I urge anyone who has time to offer, to work with the SVP by becoming a volunteer.
Cardinal Vincent Nichols, Archbishop of Westminster
Becoming the inspiration
Almost 10,000 SVP members, motivated by a shared vision and mission, give their time to help people in need across England and Wales. You’ll support our work befriending and providing practical assistance to over 90,000 lonely and isolated people every year. Join the SVP and turn your concern into action.
What does an SVP group do?
Every group, or 'Conference', meets regularly to discuss how to help people in their area. Each group has its own particular specialisms reflecting local need, this may include:
- Visiting and befriending older or lonely people
- Running a soup run or food bank
- Supporting homeless people
- Aiding refugees and asylum seekers
- Supporting vulnerable families and children
- Visiting prisoners and their families
By joining the SVP, you can make a real difference to the lives of vulnerable people in your community. As a member, you'll join a strong network of like-minded volunteers and staff across the country and gain access to a wealth of resources and training. If you already do some community outreach in your area, you can continue your great work with additional support from the SVP National Office team.
Training and Development
When you become a member, you get access to our online learning platform, Knowledge Hub, with its various printable resources, how-to guides and support in developing as a member. You can dip into our regular online training sessions, choosing anything from compliance, safeguarding, Officer role development to End of Life Companionship or spiritual development. We also host bi-weekly webinars, monthly prayer amd reflection sessions plus monthly member “toolkits”. When you join other members online we organically create a community of support online and offline.
We also hold occasional public facing Society events.
We look forward to meeting you!
Membership is open to anyone. All we ask is that you accept our Christian ethos. We help all people irrespective of their background or religion. The only criterion for who we help is their need.
We look for members who are, above all, caring and compassionate. We want people who are good listeners, confidential and non-judgemental of others. If this sounds like you, please get in touch with us.
If you would like to find more about becoming a member of the SVP, contact the SVP national office at membership@svp.org.uk or 0207 703 3030. You can also enquire at your local parish church to see if there is an SVP group you could join.