Your Rights & Responsibilities as a volunteer

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as a volunteer you have the following rights:
  1. To be treated as a member of the team, not just free help.
  2. To a suitable role--with consideration for personal preference, temperament, life experience, education and employment background.
  3. To know as much about the organisation as possible-its policies, people and programs.
  4. To induction and training for the role and continuing support in the completion of your tasks.
  5. To a role description.
  6. To a sutiable and safe place to volunteer - a designated place that is conducive to the role and taks to be done.
  7. To new opportunities and a variety of experiences - through advancement or transfer, or through special assignment.
  8. To be heard - to feel free to make suggestions, to have a part in planning.
  9. To recognition - in the form of promotion and awards, through day to day expressions of appreciation.
  10. To sound guidance, feedback and direction.
as a volunteer you have the following responsibilities:
  1. If you have criticism about another person, convey it to your supervisor.
  2. Be prompt and reliable in reporting for scheduled volunteering. Keep accurate records of your hours.
  3. Notify your supervisor as early as possible if you are unable to volunteer as scheduled.
  4. Attend orientation and training sessions scheduled.
  5. Be considerate, respect the ability of the staff, and act as a member of the team.
  6. Carry out assignments in good spirit and seek the assistance of your supervisor in any situation requiring special guidance.
  7. Accept the right of the agency to dismiss any volunteer for poor performance, including poor attendance.
  8. Decline a role that is not acceptable to you; maintain an open mind with regard to other people's standards and values.
  9. Communicate personal limitations - acceptable out-of-pocket costs, transportation needs, time constraints, etc.
  10. Provide feedback, suggestions, and recommendations to your supervisor and staff if these might increase the effectiveness of the program.
  11. Give written notice if you cannot continue in your volunteer position or if you are requesting a leave of absence from the program.
  12. Have the ability to participate with a culturally diverse population of clients.
  13. Respect current agency policies (i.e. Data Protection, Garda Vetting Policy etc.)