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| Volunteering
programmes too formal |
18/05/06 |
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A
third of charities think their own volunteering programmes are too formal,
according to research conducted by charity sector think tank nfpSynergy.
Front line managers were more likely to feel that volunteering is over-formalised,
while chief executives and board members are more likely to argue that it
is not formal enough in its nature. Over half the charities surveyed had
supervision programmes, job descriptions and grievance procedures in place
for their volunteer staff.
To recruit new volunteers, 72% relied on an interview with character references,
and 70% carried out police checks. Training and support was offered by 70%
of charities to their volunteers, and 79% also provided the benefit of an
expense account.
But many respondents also felt current trends were becoming too formal.
Over half objected to expecting volunteers to work regular hours or shifts
or to fill out outcome monitoring forms. Despite these concerns, 66% thought
it was important to have a mechanism for recognising volunteer input and
achievement in place.
Joe Saxton, driver of ideas at nfpSynergy, said formal volunteering programmes
were only valuable if they deliver a better service for the charity’s
beneficiaries. “Good volunteer management does not involve imposing
a workplace management model on volunteers or turning voluntary work into
the equivalent of paid work – minus the pay cheque,” he said.
“Volunteers are giving their time and their passion to your cause
for free and in exchange they may rightly expect a good degree of flexibility,
creativity and autonomy.”
The think tank recommends making it clear what will be expected of volunteers
and giving them a say in their treatment.
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