Volunteering Policy

Family Wellness Services, Created December 2025.

1. Purpose of the Policy

Family Wellness Services recognises the valuable contribution that volunteers make to our mission of supporting families’ emotional wellbeing, relationships, and community connection. This policy outlines our approach to recruiting, supporting, and safeguarding volunteers so that volunteering is a safe, positive, and meaningful experience for everyone involved.

2. Our Commitment to Volunteers

We are committed to ensuring that volunteers:

• Feel welcomed, valued and respected as part of the team

• Have clear roles and responsibilities

• Receive appropriate support, training and supervision

• Work within a safe and healthy environment

• Are recognised for the time, skills and passion they contribute

3. Equal Opportunities

Family Wellness Services promotes equality, diversity and inclusion. Volunteering opportunities are open to all individuals who are able to meet the role requirements. We do not discriminate based on age, disability, gender, race, religion or belief, sexual orientation, marital status or socio-economic background.

4. Recruitment and Selection

Volunteers may apply through our formal registration process. We may require some or all of the following depending on the role:

• Application form and/or interview

• Reference checks

• Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check (for roles involving children or vulnerable adults)

• Proof of identity and eligibility to volunteer in the UK

The selection process aims to ensure that volunteers are suitable for the role and that the role is a good fit for the volunteer’s skills and interests.

5. Volunteer Roles and Agreements

Volunteers will be provided with a role description setting out expectations, responsibilities, hours and supervision arrangements.
All volunteers will be asked to sign a Volunteer Agreement, confirming that they understand the organisation’s policies, including safeguarding, confidentiality and data protection. This is not a contractual employment agreement.

6. Induction, Training and Support

All volunteers will receive:

• An induction to the organisation and relevant policies

• Training required for their specific role

• Access to ongoing support and supervision

Volunteers will be offered regular opportunities to reflect on their experience and provide feedback.

7. Safeguarding and Confidentiality

Family Wellness Services is dedicated to promoting the safety and wellbeing of all children, young people, and families we support. Volunteers must adhere to our Safeguarding Policy and report any concerns to the designated safeguarding lead immediately.

Confidentiality is essential to maintain trust. Volunteers must not share personal information about families, staff or other volunteers outside of the organisation.

8. Health, Safety and Wellbeing

We have a duty of care to ensure that volunteers are not exposed to avoidable risks. Volunteers must:

• Follow all health and safety procedures

• Report incidents or hazards promptly

• Only undertake activities they feel comfortable and competent to perform

We recognise that supporting families can be emotionally demanding, and we will provide wellbeing support where needed.

9. Boundaries and Professional Conduct

Volunteers should maintain appropriate boundaries and at all times:

• Treat others with respect and compassion

• Follow organisational guidance when working with children and vulnerable adults

• Avoid any behaviour that could be perceived as discriminatory, harmful or exploitative

10. Data Protection

Volunteers must comply with the UK GDPR and our internal data policies. Personal information will be stored securely and only used for legitimate organisational purposes.

11. Problem-Solving and Ending a Placement

If issues arise, we will:

• Discuss concerns openly with the volunteer

• Offer additional support, supervision or retraining where possible

We reserve the right to discontinue a volunteer placement if behaviour conflicts with organisational policies, safeguarding expectations, or wellbeing values.

Volunteers may end their placement at any time and are encouraged to give reasonable notice so that handover arrangements can be made.

12. Recognition and Appreciation

We are committed to celebrating volunteer contributions through:

• Thank-you events

• Certificates and references (upon request and where volunteering has been satisfactorily completed)

• Regular recognition within the team