Inclusive Volunteering

Principles

• Open to learning and unlearning – Organisations are committed to engaging in regular learning around equality, diversity and equity
• Flexibility – Offering taster sessions, removing unnecessary processes
• Recruitment – Advertising roles in a range of different ways that are accessible, holding interviews online
• Peer Support – Offering a buddy for volunteers when they begin a new volunteer role, holding volunteer meet-ups
• Valuing – Volunteers are valued, have the opportunity to make a positive contribution to the organisation, are celebrated at events, and receive regular supervision sessions, making them feel part of the team
• Adequate resourcing for volunteering and volunteer management – Staff time is allocated for volunteer management, volunteer expenses are paid, and roles are clearly distinguished from those of paid staff
• Allyship – Supporting and advocating for marginalised groups, amplifying voices, challenging discrimination, and taking action to create inclusive environments
• Respect and dignity – Volunteers have a safe and secure environment and are treated with respect
• Equity – Considering individual needs and intersectionality; asking volunteers about necessary adaptations rather than assuming; understanding motives for volunteering and helping fulfil aspirations
• Volunteer Progression – Committed to enabling progression based on motivations and aspirations, including training and employment opportunities
• Organisational culture – Influencing organisational culture and sharing good practice by offering training to staff who work with volunteers
• Promoting volunteer self-care and boundaries – Ensuring volunteers don’t over-commit by establishing, sharing, and reiterating clear role boundaries