Volunteer Policy

1. Purpose of the Volunteer Policy

TechJumpstart Hub CIC recognises the vital role that volunteers play in achieving our mission of empowering women and young people in underserved communities. This policy provides guidance on recruiting, training, and supporting volunteers, ensuring a safe, respectful, and fulfilling experience for all involved.

2. Volunteer Recruitment

Inclusive Recruitment: TechJumpstart Hub CIC is committed to recruiting volunteers from diverse backgrounds and encourages applications from all sections of the community.
Recruitment Process: Volunteers will be recruited through a structured process that includes an application, interview, and references. The process is designed to match volunteers with roles suited to their skills and interests.
Safe Recruitment: For roles involving direct contact with young people or vulnerable adults, applicants will undergo Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) checks to ensure the safety and well-being of all beneficiaries.

3. Fairness, Equity, and Accessibility

Equity in Treatment: All volunteers will be treated fairly, with respect and without discrimination based on race, gender, age, disability, sexual orientation, religion, or socioeconomic status.
Accessible Volunteering: TechJumpstart Hub CIC is committed to making volunteer roles accessible to as many people as possible. Where appropriate, we will make reasonable adjustments to roles, tasks, and the working environment to accommodate volunteers’ needs.
Promoting Inclusion: We aim to create an inclusive environment that values diversity and ensures all volunteers feel welcome and supported.

4. Volunteer Induction and Training

Induction Program: All volunteers will receive an induction covering TechJumpstart Hub CIC’s values, mission, and safeguarding policies, as well as their specific roles and responsibilities.
Training Opportunities: Volunteers will have access to training relevant to their roles, including safeguarding, health and safety, and any specific skills required for their tasks. Regular refresher training will be provided to ensure volunteers remain informed and confident in their roles.

5. Volunteer Expenses

Reimbursement of Expenses: To ensure volunteering is accessible to everyone, we will reimburse volunteers for reasonable expenses incurred during their work, such as travel and meals. Volunteers should submit receipts and complete an expense form to claim reimbursement.
Claim Process: Expense claims should be submitted monthly and will be reimbursed promptly in line with our financial policies.

6. Supervision and Support for Volunteers

Volunteer Supervisor: Each volunteer will be assigned a designated supervisor who will provide regular support, guidance, and feedback.
Ongoing Support: Supervisors will conduct regular check-ins to discuss any issues, offer guidance, and ensure that volunteers feel valued and supported in their roles.
Feedback and Development: Volunteers are encouraged to give feedback on their experience and to identify any additional support or training they may need.

7. Health and Safety for Volunteers

Commitment to Safety: TechJumpstart Hub CIC is committed to providing a safe environment for all volunteers and ensuring that they are aware of health and safety procedures.
Health and Safety Training: Volunteers will receive health and safety training as part of their induction, covering fire safety, emergency procedures, and risk assessment.

Risk Assessments: For activities involving higher risks, a risk assessment will be conducted, and volunteers will be informed of safety precautions and protective equipment requirements.

8. Confidentiality and Data Protection

Confidentiality Agreement: Volunteers may have access to sensitive information about beneficiaries or the organisation. All volunteers must agree to maintain confidentiality and respect privacy at all times.
Data Protection: Volunteers must comply with data protection laws (GDPR) and ensure that any personal information they handle is kept secure and used appropriately. Personal data should not be shared without consent and must be stored according to TechJumpstart Hub CIC’s data protection policies.
Social Media and Public Disclosure: Volunteers are expected to adhere to social media guidelines and avoid disclosing confidential or sensitive information about beneficiaries or the organisation.

9. Problem Solving and Complaints Procedure

Problem-Solving Process: If a volunteer has any concerns about their role or experience, they should first speak with their supervisor. We are committed to addressing and resolving any issues fairly and promptly.
Formal Complaints: If an issue cannot be resolved informally, volunteers can raise a formal complaint by submitting it in writing to the Volunteer Coordinator or Safeguarding Lead. All complaints will be handled confidentially and impartially.
Disciplinary Action: In cases of serious breaches of the Volunteer Policy, including breaches of confidentiality, discrimination, or other inappropriate behavior, TechJumpstart Hub CIC reserves the right to end the volunteer’s engagement with the organisation.

10. Volunteer Rights and Responsibilities

Rights: Volunteers have the right to a safe, inclusive, and supportive working environment, respectful treatment, and access to training and feedback.

Responsibilities: Volunteers are expected to uphold TechJumpstart Hub CIC’s values, act with integrity, and adhere to all policies, including safeguarding and confidentiality requirements

11. Policy Review

This policy will be reviewed annually to ensure it remains aligned with best practices, legal standards, and the needs of both TechJumpstart Hub CIC and our volunteers.