Volunteer Agreement and Policies

Although you are not paid, it is still very important for you to understand the rights and responsibilities you have whilst working as a Volunteer. Every opportunity will have their own exact wording, but you can expect an opportunity to: 

• provide the volunteer with guidance in choosing a suitable role and provide adequate information about the role before you begin your voluntary work
• provide adequate induction, training and support throughout your volunteer placement
• reimburse out of pocket expenses
• ensure you work in a safe environment
• abide by UK legislation with regards to equality of opportunity
• ensure your role is not a replacement for a paid member of staff
• keep your personal details confidential
• review work undertaken by the volunteer to allow two-way feedback to enable a volunteer to develop new skills
• give volunteers references if and when required
• ensure any cause for complaint is addressed fairly in accordance with the organisational guidelines

You also have responsibilities as a volunteer, which may include the following:

• represent the organisation in a professional manner
• adhere to an organisations policies and procedures
• agree a time commitment and uphold the commitment
• undertake essential training and attend supervisory sessions in respect to the voluntary opportunit
• maintain confidentiality at all times
• inform the organisation in good time if you cannot attend or wish to withdraw from a voluntary opportunity
• look after your own safety
• respect others and act in a non-discriminatory manner in accordance with equality of opportunity
• fill out the appropriate forms within to be reimbursed for out of pocket expenses
• be aware that if you are working with children or vulnerable adults, you will be required to be checked by the Criminal Records Bureau
• go to members of staff responsible for a voluntary opportunity as the first point of contact if you have any problems or grievances

Each organisation will have volunteer policy, which you should read before starting a placement.

The Access Office’s policy can be seen here.