Volunteer policy
Our Volunteer Policy is available to you as a separate document for your reference. It is a statement explaining why we use volunteers and some of the internal procedures relevant to the management of volunteers.
Recruitment
We aim to make our volunteer recruitment process as fair and accessible as possible and observe a policy of equal opportunities which can be found here.
The process
- After the potential volunteer makes the first contact with Core Services they are requested to complete an application form.
- An initial meeting is arranged with Core Services. This is a good opportunity to give an overview of the organisation, establish the applicant’s interests and skills and then talk them through volunteering opportunities that are available and might appeal to them.
- It is VCKC policy to request two references. Any volunteers who work with children and vulnerable adults will be required to have a DBS (Disclosure and Barring Service) check at no cost to themselves.
- Once both references have been received, and a place within the volunteer programme has been made available, the volunteer is invited to join us.
Induction
When a volunteer asks to join a new project, Core Services will outline what the role will be like, the skills required and how long the project is predicted to last.
All volunteers will receive an induction covering health and safety, facilities such as refreshment areas as well as specific training appropriate to the demands of the assignment and the capabilities of the volunteer.
Supervision
Once you are assigned to a project you will be given the name and contact details of the member of staff supervising you. Your supervisor will be available to answer any questions that you have concerning the project. All decisions by the supervisor are final and must be respected.
Volunteer Safety
The safety of volunteers is our top priority within the volunteering programme. We have a volunteer Health and Safety Policy which can be found here. All volunteer roles and projects are risk assessed. If you feel uncomfortable or don’t believe you have the necessary skills to complete a task, please raise it with your supervisor.
Volunteer Review
Volunteers are welcome to have a review at any time, they can contact their supervisor. At the end of every project, the volunteer will have a review and can give feedback.
Take a look at our Volunteer Handbook for more information.
