Volunteering Policies

We have listed some common volunteering policies:

• Volunteer Recruitment – clearly outlines the process for selecting volunteers and specifies any required qualifications, skills and whether background checks will be required for the role. A written job description for the volunteer role is recommended as it provides an overview of expectations regarding commitment, hours, and performance.
• Volunteer Induction – helps volunteers feel included and ensures they have all the information they need from the start. Induction might be delivered face to face, individually or as part of a group, it might be on-line or by handbook. Included in the induction may be a range of policies tailored to the organisation such as equal opportunities, data protection, home, and lone working policies.
• Volunteer Code of Conduct – outlines acceptable behaviour including guidelines on confidentiality, respect, and professional conduct.
• Volunteer Wellbeing – defines the support system for volunteers, the role of supervisors and who the volunteers can go to for assistance.
• Volunteer Engagement – let volunteers know you’ll be giving them feedback periodically and in return they will be asked for regular feedback and will be given opportunities to put forward suggestions.
• Volunteer Expenses – provide guidance on what is permitted as a reimbursable expense and the process for submitting expense claims.
• Volunteer Recognition and Appreciation – outline the organisations approach to thanking volunteers and specify any awards, certificates or acknowledgements volunteers may receive.
• Health and Safety – outlines the health and safety procedures for volunteers including relevant training, insurance, and emergency protocols.
• Conflict Resolution – outlines the process for resolving conflicts between volunteers or with staff. It should provide a fair and transparent process for addressing issues and clearly define the circumstances under which a volunteer’s engagement may be terminated.