Volunteering

In England more people offer their voluntary services to sport than any other activity. Volunteers are without doubt the backbone of British sport. From Grassroots to International level they are the unsung hero's, without which sport as we know it would cease to exist. The reality is simple - No Volunteers - No Sport!

The vital and significant contribution that volunteers play within sport is becoming increasingly recognised by a number of key agencies and is featuring highly on the Governments agenda.

With over 22 million adults getting involved it is important that volunteers are effectively managed and supported. Without the selfless work of volunteers most clubs would almost certainly struggle to survive and therefore it is important that constant training and continuous support and resources are provided.

What is a volunteer?

"A Volunteer is a person who, free of charge and without duress, contributes their time and skills with the aim of benefiting people in their community" (National Association of Volunteer Bureaux)

People volunteer for many different reasons and often the motivation for their desire to make a voluntary contribution will have a major impact upon the form that their volunteering eventually takes. It is vital that volunteering is mutually beneficial to both the individual and the club in order for both parties to get the most out of the experience.

Volunteer issues that clubs should be aware of:

• Volunteers should be provided with a written description of their role and their hours of work should be agreed and confirmed.
• Volunteers should be informed as to who they are responsible to and be able to approach this person with any issue concerns that they might have.
• Volunteers should be adequately insured by their club.
• Volunteers should not be asked to undertake tasks for which someone has previously been paid to do.
• Volunteers should be given the opportunity to receive training and develop their skills.