24th July 2023
100 Charter Champions
Ensuring that each and every volunteer has a good experience is important to us at Volunteer Scotland. That’s why we're pleased that more than 100 individuals, groups and organisations share that goal and have signed up to be #CharterChampions.
The Volunteer Charter relaunched during Volunteers’ Week 2023 (1-7 June) and sets out 10 principles that provide the foundations for a good volunteer experience and clarity about appropriate volunteer engagement that prevents the exploitation of workers and volunteers.
The first organisation to formally pledge support to the Volunteer Charter is Befriending Networks. Susan Hunter, Befriending Networks Chief Executive Officer said:
"Befriending Networks were proud to be the first Charter Champion. We share Volunteer Scotland’s perspective that the Charter provides an excellent foundation for good volunteering experiences. In a current climate of change and uncertainty it felt important to us to reassert out commitment to volunteers and volunteering. We know that volunteers are essential to so many organisations, and we want every volunteer to have a positive, meaningful, and rewarding experience.”
In mid-July, only 6 weeks after relaunching, Grampian Opportunities became the 100th Charter Champion. Tracey Harrison, Volunteer Coordinator at Grampian Opportunities said:
"Grampian Opportunities (GO) aims to open employment opportunities, volunteering and learning opportunities for people who have a disability, mental health problems or long-term conditions. Our aim is to encourage people to be involved in their community. Our vision is a community where everyone has equal opportunities and support. Grampian Opportunities chose to pledge to the Charter as it would be our pleasure to stand shoulder to shoulder with other Volunteer (involving) organisations who work equally as hard as we do to encourage people to volunteer so that they can contribute their time and skills to others."
The range of individuals, organisations and groups from across the voluntary sector and beyond that have already pledged their support is truly inspiring. We’re delighted that in only a short time the Volunteer Charter is reaching people that can really make a difference to the way volunteering is resourced, represented and delivered. Alan Stevenson, Volunteer Scotland CEO said:
“Volunteering is under pressure right now. From those that don’t understand or value it but also who see it as a replacement for paid work or an opportunity to cut costs. The Charter Champions tell a very different story, and each is helping to ensure that volunteering is always seen as a force for good, an enriching experience, and an activity that benefits all. To the first 100 - thank you.”
Thank you to all our Charter Champions – we appreciate your ongoing support. If you want to join them, and commit to improving volunteer experiences, find out more and sign up to become a Charter Champion here.