Volunteer Agreements

A Volunteer Agreement sets out the mutual understanding between the organisation and the volunteer. It helps clarify what each party can expect, creating a positive and transparent foundation for the volunteering relationship.

Your Agreement should include:

What the organisation agrees to provide:

• A welcoming and inclusive environment where volunteers feel valued and respected.
• A clear role description so volunteers understand their tasks and responsibilities.
• Induction and training relevant to the role.
• Ongoing support and supervision so volunteers can raise concerns, ask questions, and receive feedback.
• Reimbursement of agreed expenses, such as travel or lunch, in line with the organisation’s expenses policy.
• Insurance cover for volunteers while they carry out their role, if applicable.

What the organisation asks from volunteers:

• A commitment to the agreed role, including reliability and giving notice if unable to attend.
• Respect for the organisation’s values, policies and procedures, including health and safety, safeguarding, and confidentiality.
• Willingness to take part in relevant training.
• A positive attitude with respect for fellow volunteers, staff and beneficiaries.

The Volunteer Agreement can be introduced during the recruitment process and signed (if appropriate) to show mutual understanding, but should always be framed as a flexible, goodwill arrangement—not a legal contract.

It’s crucial that the language used in Volunteer Agreements avoids legalistic terms to prevent any implication of an employment relationship. Phrases like “we hope” or “we suggest” are preferable to “must” or “require”.

Our Chatbot can help create a Volunteer Agreement that works for your organisation, just ask it to help!

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