Volunteering
Why a volunteer scheme?
We are committed to developing our activities in a sustainable way. We believe that the best way to achieve this is to harness the energy, commitment and the existing and latent skills of local people who support the project. Using a volunteer workforce in this way will allow us to develop and deliver a programme of activities that would otherwise be far beyond our reach. Involving volunteers in all aspects of the project's work will help foster a sense of ownership and commitment in local people and ensure that the project keeps in touch with its supporters.
We believe that providing opportunities to volunteer in all aspects of the business of running its work is vital to allow people to contribute in ways that suit them, in terms of time and the kind of activity that matches their particular skills, abilities and aspirations. Volunteers do not receive payment for their effort but can expect other rewards: a sense of achievement, a chance to be part of a successful team, opportunities to develop new skills and the recognition and thanks of the organisation for a job well done.
We will place a value on the contributions of our volunteers, based on an hourly rate for the job undertaken. We will keep a record of all volunteer work done. We will use this as part of our applications to funding bodies as 'match funding' to qualify for financial grants. We will also use the record as the basis for regular events to celebrate and acknowledge the contributions made by our volunteers.
Who can volunteer?
Anyone living in and around Wotton who is in agreement with the project's aims and values can volunteer. You will need to agree to follow the project's health and safety procedures and its volunteer code of conduct. We will give volunteers instruction and training in their particular responsibilities. There is no upper or lower age limit for volunteers - there is plenty for everyone to do - but some jobs need particular skills and experience.
What is the volunteer code of conduct?
A set of four basic rules we all agree to follow:
Volunteers will, when working for the project:
- treat all volunteers and visitors to the project with respect and courtesy and in accordance with our diversity policy;
- act responsibly and safely, following agreed methods of work, safety and security instructions;
- carry out work to the best of their ability and undertake activities only when suitably trained or experienced; and
- follow work plans and job descriptions.
What skills do I need to have to volunteer?
The most important thing is your commitment to the project. We need help with a wide range of work. We publish and keep up to date a list of jobs and roles we need help with. Have a look and see where you might fit in, then talk to us. If you already have a skill or the experience we need that is great. If you don't have a specific skill but are happy to help with some of the basics we will value that too. We will also give you a chance to learn how to do some of the things that you haven't tried before. We are developing training sessions to allow us to do this.
What kinds of things need doing?
We need help with lots of stuff. Talk to one of our volunteer coordinators.
What sort of commitment do I have to make?
That is entirely up to you. You might prefer to commit to see through a particular project or find it easier to say you can give a fixed number of hours a week or a month. You might be happy to help generally at specific events or to go on to a rota to cover regular sessions. You might be happy to be on call when we have lots of posters to put up, or leaflets to deliver at a time that suits you. All these different commitments can help us.
What if I can't keep to my commitment?
We understand that people's circumstances change and the unexpected happens. We ask that people make a commitment so we can plan and be sure that we have enough people to make things work smoothly. If you find you are not going to be able to keep to a commitment that you have made with us, we ask that you let us know in good time so we can make other arrangements. If you find are not enjoying the work you have volunteered to do, talk to our volunteer coordinator about it and we will try and find something more suited to you.
What if I can't make any commitment just now?
That is okay with us too. We would welcome you simply coming along to events - it is always helpful to have a good audience. Tell your friends about us too - a personal recommendation is the best publicity. If you want to express your support for the project by making a financial donation we'd be happy to receive that too - every little, or not so little, helps!
We look forward to hearing from you.
Link to the on-line form
Bill Sanderson
On behalf of the steering group |
