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CASE · WOONBRIGADE HAARLEM
Trusted relationships as a gateway to support and participation
A question about volunteer recruitment led to a broader view of how to reach people: who could lend a hand, and who could benefit from support to make their home more energy efficient?
This case study focuses on exploring and activating existing social networks for Woonbrigade Haarlem, an initiative run by our client, Stichting Hattrick Haarlem.
THE ORIGINAL QUESTION
Woonbrigade helps residents save energy at home. Our work began with a question: how could we encourage more people to get involved?
The research drew attention to people who already help others, for example through a club or community group. Not everyone thinks of what they do as volunteering.
THE INSIGHT
A trusted contact can make the first step easier
When support is offered in the home, unfamiliarity with what is available can be a barrier. Someone you know can explain the support, make it easier to ask questions and help you get in touch.
Alongside volunteer recruitment, reaching households therefore became another focus. This calls for a tailored invitation and appropriate follow-up.
Social Network Strategy connects existing relationships with a specific social need.
WHAT HAVE WE DONE
Exploring networks and building connections
Our contribution focuses on mapping relevant relationships and key contacts, and helping to build connections. These insights provide a starting point for personal outreach and engagement.
The central insight from this case is the broader scope of the original question: existing networks can help both recruit volunteers and reach households.
TWO APPLICATIONS
One connected network,
two different questions
Both applications start with trusted relationships. Each has a different purpose and next step.
Reaching households
A trusted contact can make someone aware of the energy-saving support available and help them ask for it. The organisation providing the support then discusses what would suit their needs and arranges any next steps.
Engaging potential volunteers
A personal invitation can lead to an initial conversation about someone’s interests and availability. The organisation then identifies a suitable role and takes care of selection, training, ongoing support and volunteer placements.
An introduction opens the door to a conversation. Whether it leads to support or volunteering depends on the individual, their needs or interests, and what the organisation can offer.
FOR OTHER ORGANISATIONS AND LOCAL AUTHORITIES
Turning this insight into a tailored approach
For similar challenges, we can combine network research with connecting partners, targeted engagement and ongoing relationship management. Where agreed, we also follow up personally with people who express an interest and check whether further contact has been made.
We draw on networks at national, local authority and neighbourhood level. Together, we agree who is responsible for follow-up, data management and continuity. Research can be commissioned separately; delivery is tailored to your goals, capacity and budget.