fiona lidell
TRANSCRIPT
Croeso WelcomeVolunteer friendly documents
Fiona Liddell
www.wcva.org.uk 0800 2888 329 [email protected]
The right words matter
Aims
To highlight the importance of language and style as well as content of volunteer policies
To identify positive, suitable words and phrases
Optional
To give practical help in getting started with drawing up either a) a volunteering policy or b) a volunteer agreement
Objectives
• Consider why we need a volunteer policy and why language matters
• Look critically at common policy words and phrases – and suggest better alternatives
• Outline what a volunteer policy might cover
options:• Produce a rough outline of a volunteer policy• Look critically at the wording of volunteer agreements
and identify what is most appropriate
The devil in the detail?
Enter text
Why Volunteer policy?
A volunteer policy is a fundamental document on which an organisation’s involvement of volunteers should be based. It forms the basis of an entire volunteer programme, giving cohesion and consistency to all elements in your organisation that affect volunteers.
Why volunteer policy? (2)
A volunteering policy enables volunteers to know:
- What are their responsibilities- How they will be treated- Who they can turn to if they have any
concerns
It
Why volunteer policy? (3)
It ensures consistency and fairness
Demonstrates commitment
Creates a common understanding
Signposts to relevant documents
Why language matters?
Your suggestions?
Do’s and don’ts
Do:• Keep it simple• Avoid jargon and acronyms• Avoid employment language• Be aware of literacy barriers• Offer alternative format• Review regularly – involve
volunteers
Don’t:• Use a template without
critical review and adaptation
• Fret – help is at hand
Over to you
Use the worksheets...
What is wrong in each case?Can you suggest better?
