On January 15th, the National Independent Visitor Network celebrated their second annual National IV Day, celebrating the vital role of independent visitors. Our Independent Visitors (IVs) are trained adult volunteers who provide children and young people in care with long lasting friendship and support. Access to independent visiting sessions is a statutory entitlement for children and young people who are living with a foster family or in residential care. They complement the vital role of social workers and carers in contributing to and promoting the young person’s developmental, social, emotional and cultural needs, and they listen to how a young person is feeling.

We are delighted to share that our Independent Visitors are being recognised for the vital work they do as NYAS has been awarded a Room to Reward recognition, celebrating the incredible dedication and commitment of our volunteers.

What is Room to Reward?

Room to Reward is a UK charity that partners with hotels to donate unsold rooms as short breaks for volunteers who go above and beyond. It’s a way to say a big “thank you” to those who give their time and energy to make a difference at no cost to the charity.

This year, eight exceptional Independent Visitors have been nominated for their outstanding service. Each of them has shown unwavering commitment, creativity, and compassion, qualities that truly embody the spirit of volunteering.

Two of these volunteers are Geeta and Kris, here are  their inspiring stories:

Geeta Manglani

Geeta has been a volunteer for over 3 years. Geeta has been a lifeline for her young person during times of instability and multiple moves. Her visits bring joy and reassurance, helping her young person navigate academic and emotional challenges with resilience and hope.

Kris Daniel

Kris   has shown extraordinary commitment across two years of volunteering with his young person, remaining a constant figure through numerous foster home moves. He now travels over 90 minutes to visit his young person, introducing hobbies like fishing and creating a sense of stability amid change.

Kris background image

I am truly  overwhelmed with receiving this award which was totally unexpected but at the same time very much appreciated. It also makes me feel extremely valued by NYAS and is  testimony to their appreciation of independent volunteers.

Kris
Geeta background image

I am so happy to receive the Room to Reward prize in recognition of my IV role. Totally unexpected and  it felt like an early Christmas present. It’s really made me feel appreciated  by NYAS and thank you to my wonderful supervisor Hannah who has supported me  over the last year.

Geeta

Volunteer with NYAS

Thank You card competition

Every year we send out hand-written thank-you cards to all of our volunteers during National Volunteer Week. We're inviting all our children and young people to put in an entry and maybe be selected as the design for the card this year!

We're also offering prizes for the ones that get chosen:

Winner - £50 gift card

Runner ups (x2) - £25 gift card each

The deadline has been extended to 15 February 2026 for all entries. We'll have a panel of judges decide between all the entries in February and announce our finalists on 02 March 2026.
 
Designs with paint, crayon, pencil, or digital art are all welcome.

Some things that won't be accepted are:

  • anything with names on
  • personal designs - we want to send these to all our volunteers!
  • inappropriate things, of course. No swearing or offensive images please

Submit entries to:

Email: [email protected]
Post:  NYAS, Units 1–4, Priory Mews, Monks Ferry, Birkenhead, CH41 5AZ    
 
Please include names and addresses when sending them over so we know where to send any prizes!