Volunteering with the council

You should keep in mind the points below when volunteering with us.

Absence

If you can't attend your volunteering session due to an illness or accident you should tell your volunteer manager as soon as possible, before you were due to start. If you are going away on holiday you should try to give plenty of notice so that cover can be arranged.

Confidentiality

You may have access to confidential information that you must not share with anyone. You will have to comply with data protection legislation. Anyone not complying may have to leave immediately.

Dress code

Clothing must be appropriate to the area in which you volunteer, and be suitable for the weather conditions if necessary. Ask your volunteer manager for guidance.

Equality and diversity

We have an equal opportunities policy. This means that no employee or volunteer will receive less favourable treatment on the grounds of race, colour, nationality, religion, ethnic or national origins, sex, marital status, sexual orientation or disability. All staff members and volunteers must adhere to the policy.

Expenses

You will be reimbursed for any out-of-pocket expenses, including travel and other reasonable expenses. We can only do this if you have kept the receipts or records of what you have paid. The expense will need to have been agreed with your volunteer manager in advance.

Fire procedures

Your volunteer manager will explain the fire evacuation procedures for your area. You will need to know the locations of fire exits, alarms, extinguishers and assembly points.

First aid

You will be told the names of our trained first aiders, and how to contact them. They will take charge of the situation if someone has an accident.

Health and safety

We will make sure that you are in a safe environment with as few risks as possible. You are responsible for being aware of your surroundings and practicing safe volunteering. During your induction you will be told about any health and safety information specific to your role and environment.

Leaving the council

When you decide to end your volunteering with us, we thank you for the time you have given. We would like you to fill out an exit form for feedback on your experience of volunteering with us. Your volunteer manager may ask you for an informal chat and fill in the form with you. As a volunteer you are able to leave your role at any time, but please let your volunteer manager know as soon as possible so they can arrange cover.

Problems and complaints

If you have any problems while you are volunteering you should speak to your volunteer manager in the first instance. Your volunteer manager will speak to you if there be any grievances.  We make every effort to settle disputes or grievances fairly and amicably. We would also like to hear of any comments or suggestions you may have about volunteering.

Safeguarding

You must immediately report any concerns you may have about the welfare of a child or young person, either to your volunteer manager or our Initial Response Team.

Please speak with your volunteer manager or contact our designated officer if you have concerns about staff or volunteers working with children or young people.