Introduction
This policy sets out the broad principles for voluntary involvement in Cirencester Civic Society (referred to as the Society). It is of relevance to everyone who volunteers to carry out tasks in support of the organisation including elected trustees. This policy statement will be reviewed annually, to ensure that it remains appropriate to the needs of the Society and its volunteers.
Definition
Volunteering is an important expression of citizenship as well as an important component of democracy. Volunteers are people who are unpaid and, of their own free will, contribute their time, energy and skills to benefit the community.
Commitment
The Society acknowledges that volunteers contribute in many ways, that their contribution is unique, and that volunteering can benefit local communities, visitors to the town and the volunteers themselves. Cirencester Civic Society values the contribution made by volunteers and is committed to involving volunteers in appropriate positions and in ways which are encouraging and supportive.
The volunteer role is a gift relationship, binding only in honour, trust and mutual understanding. No enforceable obligation, contractual or otherwise, can be imposed on volunteers to attend, give or be set a minimum amount of time to carry out the tasks involved in their voluntary activity. Likewise, the Society cannot be compelled to provide either regular tasks, payment or other benefit for any activity undertaken by the volunteer. Although volunteers offer time freely and willingly without binding obligation, there is a presumption of mutual support and reliability. Reciprocal expectations are acknowledged – both of what Cirencester Civic Society expects of volunteers and what volunteers expect of the Society.
Recruitment and Selection
Cirencester Civic Society is committed to equal opportunities and believes that volunteering should be open to all regardless of race, gender, religion, sexual orientation or political beliefs. The acceptance of volunteer assistance for a particular role is made on merit, the sole selection criterion being the individual’s suitability to carry out agreed tasks. Information about the volunteer not relevant to the performance of the volunteering tasks concerned will be disregarded by the Society in terms of selection.
All volunteers will be invited to attend an informal interview. If the volunteer will be carrying out activities with vulnerable groups (children and/or adults) there may be a requirement to undergo a Disclosure and Barring Services (DBS) check.
Volunteers will be inducted into the Society and briefed about the activities to be undertaken and the necessary information to enable them to perform with confidence.
Support for volunteers is a high priority for the Society so as to equip them with the necessary information and skills to carry out their tasks. It will be the responsibility of certain designated persons to see that this training is provided. It is the responsibility of the volunteer to attend relevant training and information sessions.
Volunteers will be made aware of Cirencester Civic Society’s Code of Conduct, Safeguarding and Privacy policies and statements.
Volunteers who are considered unsuitable for a particular task will be offered alternative voluntary involvement with the Society.
The designated person referred to above is responsible for handling problems regarding volunteer complaints or conduct and these should be referred to him/her. Support will be provided by the Society to the volunteer while it endeavours to resolve the problem in an informal manner. If an informal resolution proves impossible, or a volunteer’s behaviour is repeatedly or seriously unacceptable, they may be asked to change their role, or to leave the Society.
Insurance
The Society’s liability insurance policies include the activities of volunteers and liability towards them. The Society does not insure the volunteer’s personal possessions against loss or damage.
Review: November 2025
This Policy Statement should be read in conjunction with Cirencester Civic Society’s Code of Conduct.