Volunteer Rights and Responsibilities

Volunteers have the right to be provided with

  • A copy of the Aims and Objectives of the agency.
  • Information on policies and procedures of the agency.
  • Orientation, training and education.
  • Recognition as a co-worker and team member.
  • A suitable assignment.
  • A duty statement and job description.
  • Information about communication lines within the agency.
  • Adequate counselling and grievance procedures.
  • Proper insurance cover.
  • Appropriate occupational health and safety protection.
  • Out-of-pocket cost reimbursement.
  • Appropriate work area and equipment.
  • Access to relevant decision making processes within the agency.
  • Appropriate forms of recognition for work done and contributions made

Volunteers have a responsibility to

  • Make an informed decision to work as a volunteer with an agency.
  • Undertake work orientation and training as required.
  • Work within the duty statement on tasks suitable to their skills and experience.
  • Behave in an ethical manner.
  • Keep agency and client matters confidential.
  • Be committed to the agency’s aims and objectives.
  • Inform the agency when unable to undertake or complete a task.
  • Use appropriate information channels within an agency when needing information, support, back-up, supervision or review.
  • Be aware of the limits of their role within the agency.
  • Be aware of their duty of care.
  • Be aware of occupational health and safety policies and practices.
  • Act as a member of the team.
  • Be aware of protocol when representing the agency.
  • Commit to achieving results and make an effective contribution to the agency