Expected Standards

Community Volunteering Standards

Professional Behaviour

Respect and dignity: Always treating the individuals and families they are assisting with the utmost respect and dignity, regardless of their circumstances.
Confidentiality: Maintaining privacy and confidentiality of the individual’s personal and health information.
Integrity: Exhibiting honesty and maintaining strong moral principles in all aspects of volunteering.

Volunteer Skills and Knowledge

Understanding of the role: Having a clear understanding of role responsibilities as a volunteer and working within these parameters.
Understanding community needs: A strong knowledge of the specific needs and challenges faced by the community they are serving.
Cultural sensitivity: Acknowledging and respecting diversity, and being aware of the cultural norms and constraints within the community.

Volunteering Best Practices

Effective communication: Able to communicate clearly and effectively with individuals they are assisting, as well as the team they are a part of.
Reliability: Commitment in terms of time and responsibilities, meeting the expectations of the role which might include regular shifts or hours.
Teamwork: Working harmoniously with other volunteers and professionals to achieve common goals.

Safeguarding and Health and Safety Standards

Safeguarding awareness: Being mindful of potential risks and taking action to ensure the safety and well-being of individuals they are working with.
Adhering to health and safety guidelines: Following all prescribed health and safety measures, such as using safety equipment, hand hygiene, or following COVID protocols.
Reporting concerns: Promptly and accurately reporting any safety or well-being concerns to the appropriate authority.

Personal Qualities

Empathy: Displaying compassion and understanding for the individuals and families they are assisting.
Resilience: Ability to cope with challenging circumstances and emotional situations.
Positive attitude: Maintaining a positive approach in all aspects of volunteering, helping to uplift those they are supporting.

Meeting these expected standards ensures an effective and supportive environment for both the community and the volunteers. It also allows the volunteer to have a rewarding and enriching experience in community volunteering.