Physical touch is one of the most misunderstood — and often avoided — aspects of volunteer engagement.

In professional settings, it raises important questions about boundaries, safety, and risk.
So many organisations respond by removing it altogether.

But what gets lost when we do that?

In this episode, Tracey explores the love language of Physical Touch — not as something to apply, but as a way of understanding how some volunteers express care, offer reassurance, and create a sense of safety for others.

This conversation moves beyond touch itself, and into something deeper:
presence, human connection, and care that is experienced — not just delivered.

We’ll explore:

• Why physical touch can feel uncomfortable in volunteer settings
• What science tells us about touch, connection, and the nervous system
• The difference between physical touch and embodied presence
• How trauma-informed practice and consent shape safe interactions
• How to recognise volunteers who bring warmth and emotional awareness
• The hidden emotional labour of presence-based roles
• How to create environments that balance connection with clear boundaries

This episode invites leaders to reconsider what professionalism looks like — and what might be lost when warmth and connection is removed in the name of safety.

Because sometimes the most powerful thing a volunteer offers…
is simply being there.

Be Bold. Stay Curious. Keep making a Ruckus.

Connect:

• Learn more: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠www.traceyoneillconsulting.com.au⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠
• Join the conversation on LinkedIn: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@traceyoneillcva⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠
• Follow on Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@tracey.volunteerengagement⁠⁠⁠⁠
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