Volunteer Agreement UK: Everything You Need to Know

Volunteering is a great way to give back to the community and to make a difference in the lives of others. It can also be a fulfilling way to gain new skills, network with like-minded individuals, and boost your CV.

However, volunteering can also be a legal minefield if you don`t have the proper documentation in place. This is where a volunteer agreement comes in. In this article, we`ll cover everything you need to know about volunteer agreements in the UK.

What is a Volunteer Agreement?

A volunteer agreement is a written contract between a volunteer and the organisation they are working for. It outlines the rights and responsibilities of both parties and sets out expectations for the volunteer`s role.

Why Do You Need a Volunteer Agreement?

There are several reasons why you need a volunteer agreement:

1. It protects both parties

A volunteer agreement provides legal protection for both the volunteer and the organisation they are working for. It sets out the terms of the arrangement and helps to manage expectations on both sides.

2. It clarifies responsibilities

A volunteer agreement ensures that everyone is on the same page when it comes to the volunteer`s responsibilities. This makes it easier to manage the volunteer`s workload and ensure that they are meeting expectations.

3. It establishes boundaries

A volunteer agreement helps to establish boundaries between the volunteer and the organisation they are working for. This helps to avoid misunderstandings and ensures that both parties are clear on what is expected of them.

What Should Be Included in a Volunteer Agreement?

A volunteer agreement should include the following:

1. The volunteer`s role

This should include a clear description of the volunteer`s role and the tasks they will be expected to carry out.

2. Time commitment

The agreement should also outline the volunteer`s time commitment. This includes the number of hours they will be expected to work each week and the duration of the volunteering role.

3. Confidentiality

The volunteer agreement should include a clause on confidentiality. This ensures that the volunteer does not disclose any sensitive information about the organisation or its clients.

4. Health and safety

The volunteer agreement should also include a clause on health and safety. This outlines the organisation`s responsibilities to ensure the volunteer`s safety while they are carrying out their role.

5. Expenses

The agreement should also outline any expenses that the organisation will cover. This could include travel expenses or the cost of any necessary training.

6. Termination

Finally, the volunteer agreement should include a clause on termination. This outlines the circumstances in which the volunteer`s role may be terminated and the notice period required.

Conclusion

Volunteering is a rewarding way to make a difference in the community. However, it is important to have a volunteer agreement in place to protect both the volunteer and the organisation they are working for. By including all the necessary elements in the agreement, you can ensure that the volunteering experience is smooth and beneficial for everyone involved.