Zoe Macgregor is the RTPI’s Volunteer Project Co-ordinator, leading on the implementation of RTPI’s volunteering strategy.
RTPI volunteers are the lifeblood of the Institute, and the results from our recent volunteer survey showcase just how meaningful their contributions are – both to the profession, wider public and to themselves. An overwhelming 98% of our volunteers would recommend the experience to others, highlighting the value of giving back to the planning community.
Why do Planners volunteer?
The drive to make a difference is clear: 77% of our volunteers joined to play a more active role in giving back to the profession. Many also saw it as an opportunity to expand their professional network (45%) – and they weren't disappointed. 65% report that volunteering has indeed broadened their professional connections.
But the benefits don't stop there. Volunteers report that their experience has:
- Broadened their knowledge of wider planning issues (56%)
- Positively impacted their professional development (53%)
- Introduced them to new people, places, and areas (70%)
- Boosted their personal development, including confidence (66%)
- Given them a sense of personal achievement (53%)
Real stories, real impact
Volunteers were asked to share what achievement they were most proud of and what they thought the impact of this had been. Their responses highlight the diversity of volunteering opportunities and the ripples of positive change that their contribution creates. You can read some of their responses below.
Stanway School Careers Fair - Bethany Jones, RTPI East of England RMB Member and Beverley McClean, RTPI East of England RAC Member
The Young Planners Conference organising committee
Increasing understanding
“I think running the urban design network conferences has been positive, people seem to have got something out of them. The policy roundtables also felt very productive in informing RTPI consultation submissions… Learning/better understanding of the relationship between planning and urban design + more informed submissions to government consultation hopefully.”
“Presenting to the RTPI Cymru Policy & Research forum on my day-to-day work / specialist subject … 1. Understanding the perspectives of others towards the industry I work in. 2. Communicating the opportunities & challenges faced by the private sector in Wales to colleagues working in the public sector.”
Making planning accessible
"Helping the Planning Aid England casework service... Helps members of the public who cannot access planning advice due to its cost."
"Helping a resident with anxiety issues gain planning permission for her household development – her gratitude was so heartwarming, and I felt proud to have helped her... She has gained measures to her house to help improve her mental health."
Supporting the next generation
“Chairing the partnership board meetings, acting as a sounding board between the Planning School and Board and reporting of the effectiveness of the school … Helping the continued effectiveness of the school and seeing improvements for the students.”
“Active participation in the education review … ensured RTPI better understands university funding and strategies.”
"Being an assessor for the apprenticeship scheme, it's fantastic to help bring new planners into the profession at a time when I am in the autumn years of my own really rewarding career... Helping ensure the profession is resilient and thriving by bringing new planners forward."
Driving professional development
“Delivering a wide range of CPD events for young planners and contributing to "Future Planner" work group. … More engagement and professional support for young planners and graduates.”
“Presenting at a webinar to 400+ people … Hopefully helped people to understand the impact of the NPPF changes on local planning authorities.”
"Organising the Young Planners conference and hosting one of the panel discussions... Celebrating the West Midlands to a national audience. Demonstrating that young planners have an active role in planning debates."
“Winning the Young Planners conference bid … Being able to bring the conference to a region that has never hosted and getting more people aware of the RTPI.”
Personal and Organisational Development
“I was proud to chair the Policy and Research forum, it gave me a unique opportunity to step into a role that I hadn't previously considered…. Progress of my professional development, and hopefully progress of the Forum!”
“Being actively involved in the committee… helps my regions members and volunteers.”
Creating global impact
"Production of a National consultation response (South Africa)... Supported the implementation of the National Spatial Development Framework (South Africa)"
“Being involved with it takes planners & campaign… It has reached beyond our profession to the wider built environment professions, and also beyond the UK.”
Are you inspired to make a difference?
We're continuously working to expand and enhance our volunteering opportunities through our volunteering strategy. Here's how you can get involved:
- Explore Opportunities: Discover the wide range of volunteering roles available.
- Shape the Future: Consider joining our Volunteer Advisory Group to ensure volunteers' voices are heard in future developments.
- Stay Informed: Watch out for our information sessions about volunteering running throughout 2025.
Whether you're looking to give back to the profession, expand your network, or develop new skills, there's a volunteering opportunity waiting for you at RTPI. Find out more Get started with RTPI volunteering today
