Volunteer roles are developed collaboratively with the staff responsible for the volunteers.

Prior to bringing in new volunteers, you conduct an assessment to help identify where volunteer support is required and determine the skills and experience needed for the role.

The volunteer recruitment process is structured to attract potential volunteers who possess the necessary skills.

Volunteers are provided with a role description and understand how their role supports the charity.

Prospective volunteer applications are responded to promptly, ideally within 2 days, demonstrating your commitment to their interest in supporting your charity.

Each applicant receives a response that includes information about the role, training or background checks needed to fulfil the role. In this way, they have a clear understanding of the role and how you will support them.

Applicants who express an interest and have the relevant skills are invited for an interview.

Following the interview, you provide feedback to applicants, including the next steps in their application i.e. references and training.

You maintain an inclusive approach throughout the application process, ensuring communications are respectful, free from discrimination, and considerate of applicants' needs.

Non-selected applicants are thanked for their interest and told their application will be kept for future opportunities or referred to other suitable organisations.

New volunteers are welcomed by staff and existing volunteers.

New volunteers are provided with an overview of the charities activities and directed to the relevant policies associated with volunteering, irrespective of their roles.

All volunteers will receive any training necessary to assist them in fulfilling their role safely.

All volunteers are assigned a named person who will support them in their role.

Volunteers are provided with refreshments including water, coffee, tea, and snacks during their work, along with access to a break area if required.

Volunteers are provided with any equipment necessary to carry out their roles.  This may include access to technology and supplies required to carry out their role

Volunteers have a physical space to work from unless they work remotely.

Volunteers are provided training around their role, as well as access to a named person who can help them with any challenges they may encounter.

Volunteers are aware of how to raise a concern or complaint and how it will be handled.

Volunteers health & safety is a priority and relevant regulations and implement measures are in place to ensure a secure environment. This includes providing necessary safety checks

Volunteers receive evaluation of their progress and performance, as well as constructive feedback and identifying areas for further development

Volunteers can work with a staff member to make a plan according to what they want to learn and achieve. The charity will then offer guidance and support to assist the volunteer in reaching their goal.

Experienced volunteers or staff members can be assigned to volunteers to provide guidance and support

Volunteers are informed about organisational changes, updates, events and opportunities which are relevant to them. This can be via emails, newsletters or meetings.

Volunteers are invited to events to show appreciation for the contribution they make to the charity

Volunteers have the option for flexibility in choosing both their shifts and the tasks they can help with for the charity, whenever feasible.

Volunteers are highlighted in the charity's marketing and on social media, showcasing their valuable contributions and potentially motivating others to join in.

Volunteers are acknowledged through various means, for example, commemorating important milestones like hours served, birthdays, and awards.