ABSTRACT
This chapter outlines the benefits of involving volunteers in what in many countries has become a highly specialised medical response to brain injury. It examines how the deliberate act of involving volunteers can enrich a care offering, extend the service and produce valuable research material to inform professionals. Governance of organisations requires special training and careful consideration. Volunteers, particularly those with a special interest, can fail to see the overall strategic goal of doing the best for the organisation and instead support their own pet project. No one type of volunteer exists or one single motivation for becoming a volunteer. Many volunteers have left organisations baffled and disenchanted because no one has made contact with them, they have received ad hoc communication, or have been underused. Managing expectations is a big part of managing volunteers. The organisation must establish what it needs in terms of voluntary support before launching a recruitment drive.
