Introduction - Register - FAQ - Training - Volunteer Managers' Network - Resources - Sports Organisatons

1. Why do you want to involve volunteers?

Some reasons others have given:

1. they enable us to provide better service for our service users
2. they help us to promote our cause
3. volunteers bring a completely different commitment
4. it keeps us connected to the community we work for
5. we like to give people a change to get real work experience
6. they keep us on our toes!

2. What will volunteers be doing?

A short job description for each area of work keeps things clear for both you and the volunteer.

3. Who will be responsible?

It's important to have a named person (this can also be a volunteer role if training and support are available) but everyone who will work alongside volunteers should be involved in the ongoing recruitment process. That way whoever a potential volunteer speaks to first, they will still get a positive response.

4. How will you recruit?

What message will you put across? Think of how your organisation would look through the eyes of a potential volunteer. Remember word of mouth is most effective so does everyone connected to the organisation have information on them to give to a friend,relative, collegue?

5. Are you prepared for potential volunteers contacting you?

Will they get to see you? Do you have information always ready to go out? Do you have an application form? Does it really need to be filled out by the volunteer or could you complete the details on their first visit?

6. How will you select volunteers?

Some organisations are able to offer something for everyone who offers to volunteer but some roles require particular skills and attributes. Things to consider - interview, taking up references, police check, have a trial period? There is no guaranteed selection method and ongoing support needs to be available whatever methods are used.

7. How will you say 'No'?

This will happen and so you're better to plan your response. Volunteers tell us that they object most to organisations that are not upfront, leave them hanging on or just don't get back in touch at all. They are guaranteed to pass their negative experience on to others. You can tell people face-to-face, by phone or by letter, but explain why and please support them to contact Volunteer Centre Fife

8. How will you support and retain volunteers?

Learn from the experience of others, from books, training courses, speaking to volunteers' managers. Contact Volunteer Centre Fife......Ask your volunteers!

Volunteer Centre Fife offers information and training on these, and a variety of other volunteer management issues.