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Responsibilities of volunteering
Whilst volunteering is not a paid position the responsibilities of a volunteer are in some ways similar to that of an employee. For example, you must follow the policies and procedures of the organisation in which you are volunteering. You may be required to fill in timesheets or sign in as a visitor, fill out any required forms e.g. if there is an incident or fulfil any other administrative duties required by your role.
Volunteers need to:
- Follow the rules, policies and guidelines of their ‘host’ organization.
- Practice ethical behaviour, including privacy and confidentiality.
- Report of any issues to your supervisor or team leader.
- Follow work, health and safety protocols.
- Be polite and respectful towards other volunteers, paid staff and clients.
As a volunteer you may be asked to sign an agreement which states you agree to the policies and procedures of the organisation. You may also be required to undertake a Working With Children Check (WWCC) or a Police Check.
A Working With Children Check (WWCC) is a requirement for anyone who works or volunteers in child-related work in NSW. It involves a National Police Check (checking your criminal history) and a review of reportable workplace misconduct. If cleared, the working with children check will be valid for 5 years, however applicants are continuously monitored.
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The host organisation also has responsibilities to you as a volunteer. They need to provide you with a safe work environment and carry out their duty of care.