Q. Do we need a volunteer policy?

 

A. For some ‘all-volunteer’ run organisations it may seem unnecessary but it does provide a clear picture as to how volunteers will be involved with the group’s activity and is recommended.

 

Q. Do we need contracts with our volunteers?

 

A. NO! Contracts are for employed staff and essentially the whole point of a

volunteer:organisation relationship is to not create a contract. It is recommended that a volunteer agreement be in place clearly setting out the organisation's commitment to its volunteers and what it can expect from its volunteers.

 

Q. What insurance cover do we need for our volunteers?

 

A. Cover for your volunteers will be under the public and/or employer liability. Make sure it specifies that volunteers are covered. It may also be necessary to have professional liability that also specifies that the actions of volunteers are covered.

 

Q. Can children volunteer with our organisation?

 

A. There is no specific legislation covering children and volunteering but the general view is to adhere to employment law and not involve 14+ years old for more than 2 hours a day on school days and Sundays.

 

Q. Can we involve people on benefits?

 

A. YES! Volunteering is an excellent way for people on short or long term benefit claiming to gain skills, interest and self-esteem that could provide a gateway to a better future. People on Job Seekers Allowance must be available for and actively seeking work but can volunteer for as many hours as that would permit. Equally those on Incapacity Benefit can volunteer without running the risk of re-assessment (and the 16 hour rule ended years ago!)

 

 

Q. Can we provide training for our volunteers?

 

A. Yes – but ensure it is directly related to the volunteering activity they are involved in. The one possible concern is to provide general training that might be looked on as a ‘payment’ (with possible undesirable consequences in terms of the relationship between volunteer and organisation)

 

Q. Can we provide equipment for volunteers?

 

A. Yes – but only for them to use as part of their involvement. Do not ‘give’ equipment to the volunteer as that may be seen as a payment (see above)

 

Q. Can we pay childcare costs?

 

A. Yes - but ensure it is a claim from the volunteer. Do not pay the carer direct and only pay if receipted and signed by the volunteer.

 

Q. Can we involve people from overseas as volunteers?

 

A. Yes but ensure the individual is legally entitled to be in the UK and permitted to volunteer. Remember – European Union and European Economic Area residents are fully entitled to volunteer in the UK free of restriction.

 

Q. Can we involve ex-offenders as volunteers?

 

A. Yes – to fail to consider ex-offenders could be seen as contrary to equal opportunities and could well be losing the organisation some excellent potential volunteers.

 

Q. How should we reimburse volunteer expenses?

 

A. It is good practice to reimburse expenses regularly and, if appropriate, in cash. All claims must be receipted and relate directly to out of pocket expenses. Remember that some potential volunteers will need prompt reimbursement and may not have a bank account, others will be less in need of a speedy payment and may prefer a cheque. Try to have some flexibility.

 

Q. One good tip for providing satisfaction for volunteers?

 

A. Say thank-you!!!

 

Please contact the Volunteer Centre Forest of Dean if you need any extra information on any issues raised here. Phone 01594 822073 and ask for Tim Fretter or Email volunteer@fvaf.org.uk