Volunteers Guidance

1. Purpose 

This sets out what volunteers can expect from us and what we can reasonably expect from our volunteers. This describes a voluntary arrangement and does not imply any obligation or contract. 

2. Our commitment to our volunteers

We very much appreciate volunteers choosing to give their time to Calthorpe and want our volunteers to enjoy their experience with us. We will:

  • be respectful of their knowledge and skills and value them as an individual

  • to offer opportunities to contribute to improvements, and to discuss concerns or problems relating to their duties

  • provide induction and any training necessary for their role 

  • provide clear guidelines within which to carry out duties 

  •  provide a named contact for regular support, feedback, appreciation and encouragement

  • treat them in line with our Equalities policy 

  • reimburse out-of-pocket expenses 

  • provide insurance cover 

  • implement good health and safety practice. 

  • store their personal data in line with the Privacy Policy.

3. Our expectations: Volunteer Code of Conduct 

Our volunteers help us to deliver our mission to improve the quality of life for local people by connecting them with the learning, leisure and wellbeing benefits of the natural world and each other. We aim to be ethical, fair, respectful and inclusive. 

Our volunteers are expected to

  • have a kind, respectful, positive, helpful and welcoming attitude 

  • be part of a team by respecting difference, offering support and sharing knowledge

  •  raise any concerns with their supervisor at an early stage in order to seek positive solutions 

  •  consult a member of staff if in need of help and guidance

  • be prepared to undertake appropriate training 

  • follow health and safety, safeguarding, and equalities policies and procedures

  • be flexible 

  • let us know as soon as possible if they cannot attend a session which you have volunteered for 

  •  respect any confidential information which they may have access to and follow data protection procedures 

  • protect our reputation by referring any media enquiries to the Management

  • take care of our property including computers and any equipment which they may use while carrying out their role

  • notify a trained First Aider if there has been an accident or incident involving physical harm

  • Volunteers working in the garden should wear clothing and footwear suitable for gardening and appropriate for the prevailing weather conditions. When required, gardening gloves will be provided by the Charity. 

Any volunteer found to be engaging in illegal activity will be referred to the Police.