Minister Lyons Celebrates Volunteers at Major NI Conference for Volunteers’ Week

Minister for Communities, Gordon Lyons, joined volunteers and organisations from across Northern Ireland earlier this week at Ulster University, Belfast, for Volunteer Now’s flagship Volunteers’ Week conference – celebrating the powerful impact of volunteering and how it can continue to grow and thrive.

Proudly supported by the Irish League of Credit Unions, the conference brought together volunteer-involving organisations, sector leaders and volunteers for a day of connection, learning and appreciation.

The event was addressed by Minister for Communities, Gordon Lyons, who recognised the vital role volunteers play in strengthening communities and supporting essential services across Northern Ireland.

A standout moment of the conference was an engaging and thought-provoking keynote workshop from Paul Reddish OBE, who challenged traditional thinking around barriers to volunteering.

Rather than focusing solely on the barriers individuals face, Paul encouraged participants to reflect on how systems and practices within organisations can unintentionally limit participation. Using a strengths-based, “what’s working” approach, the session reframed low engagement as an opportunity for organisations to adapt and evolve.

Drawing on innovative examples from across the sector, Paul also introduced an equity-focused, culturally competent framework to help attendees assess their current approach and identify practical ways to create more inclusive opportunities.

Attendees had the opportunity to connect and network, sharing ideas on how volunteering can become more inclusive, flexible and sustainable for the future.

Thanks to support from The Big Lunch, delegates enjoyed a shared lunch together, creating another opportunity to build relationships and celebrate the sense of community that volunteering brings.

Speaking at the event, Minister Lyons said, “Volunteers give their skills, energy, and experience to support individuals, families, and neighbourhoods. Their contribution strengthens community life, tackles isolation, helping ensure that vital services and initiatives can continue to thrive. It is a real pleasure for me to be able to recognise and celebrate Volunteers’ Week, and to acknowledge the extraordinary contribution that volunteers make across Northern Ireland every single day. This event shines a spotlight on the positive experiences of volunteers and will hopefully encourage more people to get involved in volunteering.

Brendan Jenkins, President of the Irish League of Credit Unions, said:
“Credit unions are rooted in the communities they serve, and volunteering is a natural extension of that commitment. Whether you’re interested in leadership, building experience, or giving back to your community, credit unions offer meaningful opportunities to get involved. It’s a chance to make a real impact, develop personally and professionally, and be part of a team that puts people first. We’re proud to support Volunteers’ Week and celebrate the people who strengthen communities every day through their time, energy and dedication.”

The conference formed part of Volunteers’ Week 2026 – a UK-wide celebration recognising the invaluable contribution of millions of volunteers.