Guide to recruiting and managing volunteers for UK charities. Learn about volunteer policies, procedures, and best practices.
Volunteers are vital to many charities, providing skills, time, and dedication. Effective volunteer management ensures a positive experience for volunteers while protecting the charity.
Good practice includes clear role descriptions, proper induction, training, supervision, and recognition. Volunteers should understand their rights and responsibilities.
While volunteers are not employees, charities still have duties regarding their health and safety and should ensure proper safeguarding procedures are followed.
Define volunteer roles clearly, advertise effectively, and have a selection process. Consider skills needed, time commitments, and volunteer suitability.
Provide thorough induction covering charity purpose, policies, and procedures. Offer ongoing training to help volunteers succeed in their roles.
Have written volunteer policies covering expenses, confidentiality, data protection, and behaviour. Ensure volunteers understand and agree to policies.
Recognise and appreciate volunteer contributions. This could include awards, events, or simply saying thank you. Recognition helps retain volunteers.
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