5th June 2023
The Volunteer Charter – pledge support today!
Individuals and organisations who involve volunteers directly or influence decisions that affect volunteering can now pledge their support for the Volunteer Charter and become a ‘Charter Champion’.
The Volunteer Charter, first developed by Volunteer Scotland and the Scottish Trades Union Congress, sets out 10 principles that provide the foundations for a good volunteer experience. It also provides clarity about appropriate volunteer engagement, preventing the exploitation of workers and volunteers.
Those principles have never been more critical. The cost-of-living crisis has had a negative impact on resources to support volunteers. It has also increased the demand for volunteer-led services at a time when volunteers are often struggling themselves.
Relaunching the Volunteer Charter during this year’s Volunteers’ Week (1st – 7th June) seemed fitting given that this year’s theme is ‘Celebrate and Inspire’. In order to inspire more people to consider volunteering, it is vital that we take all steps possible to ensure volunteers have a positive and rewarding experience. The Volunteer Charter provides a solid foundation for establishing quality volunteer roles.
“Our decision to relaunch the Volunteer Charter and to introduce the Charter Champion pledge was inspired by the experiences of the Cost of Living and Volunteering Task Group. We believe that increasing engagement with the Volunteer Charter will help to address a range of challenges experienced by volunteers and the organisations they support, ultimately leading to better volunteering experiences for all involved. We will only succeed in inspiring more people to start, and sustain, volunteering if we take all available steps to ensuring their experience is positive.”
Pledging support is no longer just a ‘tick box’ exercise. We encourage sign-ups to take more active steps in promoting and engaging others to participate in the Charter. Becoming a Charter Champion shows your commitment to positive and legitimate volunteer experiences. Encourage your networks, partners, and stakeholders to do the same.
A Charter Champion badge and promotional resources will be provided to you after you pledge, and you/your organisation or group will be added to ‘Our Charter Champions’ list.