Volunteer Charter

Volunteer Centres Devon Support the Volunteers Charter

• Every individual should have the right to volunteer. Volunteers have rights that should be met in the course of volunteering. Volunteering is a legitimate activity in its own right and not a substitute for paid work.
• Volunteers should have a clear idea of the tasks they are being asked to perform and of the responsibility that goes with those tasks
• Volunteers should be told who is responsible for their support and supervision. They should have regular access to this person and the person should ensure that each volunteer is given adequate support
• Access to, and participation in, the decision-making process of the groups/organisations that involve volunteer supports, should be available to them. This is to ensure fair representation of the needs and interests of all volunteers
• Volunteers should be protected against exploitation of their interest, both as individuals and volunteers. Volunteers should not be put under any moral pressure to undertake activities that go against their principles
• Volunteers should be adequately protected against any risks that may arise from undertaking voluntary activity. Public Liability Insurance must for instance, cover volunteers
• Volunteers should not suffer financially by volunteering. They should receive out of pocket expenses and be provided with appropriate equipment/tools/materials to enable them to carry out their voluntary tasks
• Volunteers should not be used to undertake tasks currently, or previously, undertaken by paid workers. The relationship between paid workers and volunteers should be complementary and mutually beneficially. Paid workers in an organisation should be fully aware of the areas of activity undertaken by volunteers and of the responsibilities of both themselves and volunteers
• Volunteers have the right to join a Trade Union relevant to the activities in which they are involved
• Volunteering should be a fulfilling experience. Through the provision of adequate support and supervision, volunteers should be able to develop their interests and skills, expand and change their areas of activity and enhance their life experience