Managing Volunteers Policy

Policy Statement

The trustees of the Weedon Almshouses recognise the vital contribution volunteers make to the charity’s aims.

Trustees will ensure that all volunteers:

• are treated equally and fairly
• know how they can expect to be treated
• know who to contact if issues arise.

Recruitment and Selection

• The Weedon Almshouses will adhere to its Equality and Diversity Policy when recruiting and selecting volunteers.
• All potential volunteers will be asked to complete a volunteer’s application/registration form.  Applicants will be selected based upon the skills they are able to bring to the charity.
• A description of the tasks involved, time commitment required, necessary skills and actual duties will be provided.
• Volunteers will be asked to produce two references and will be invited to attend an informal interview.

Induction and Training

• All volunteers will have an induction to the charity which will include an overview of the relevant policies and procedures.  They will receive a Health and Safety briefing and will visit the almshouses and, if appropriate, meet the residents.
• All volunteers are covered under Weedon Almshouses Public Liability Insurance.
• Where there is specific training required this will be highlighted as part of the recruitment process and if necessary provided at the expense of the charity.

Expenses

Volunteers will be able to claim reasonable expenses for their volunteering which should be discussed and approved prior to incurring any costs to ensure that it will be reimbursed by Weedon Almshouses.

Supervision and Support

Volunteers will have access to regular support and supervision from (PERSON). This will enable the charity to identify any training need and support the volunteer as necessary. This is alongside training and guidance available from the Almshouse Association of which the charity is a member.

Health and Safety

All volunteers will receive a copy of the charity’s Health and Safety policy.

Confidentiality and Data Protection

The Weedon Almshouses will comply with its data protection (GDPR) policy in the use of any data held on all volunteers.

Complaints procedures for volunteers

All volunteers will be treated fairly, objectively and consistently. Where concern is highlighted the Weedon Almshouses will ensure that volunteers’ views are heard, noted, and invested properly in line with our complaints policy.