Free UK Genealogy relies on 1,000+ online volunteers to keep vital family history records free, but our small staff team cannot give them the remote support, guidance and connection they need at this scale. Our volunteer experience is currently fragmented, inconsistent, and often difficult to navigate. Without stronger shared resources, volunteers can feel isolated, knowledge is harder to pass on, and recruitment and retention are more fragile. This puts significant strain on our resources.

We will create opportunities for our volunteers to connect with one another and foster a stronger sense of community; assist with project planning; and ensure that volunteers feel informed, supported, and recognised for their contribution. We are in the early planning stages of developing an online platform for our volunteers, which would act as a single front door for guidance, onboarding, communication, support and shared knowledge, helping volunteers feel part of one connected community.