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Developing a volunteer policy for your organisation

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This guide provides practical advice on developing a volunteer policy tailored to organisational needs. It explains key elements to include and highlights the role of policies in supporting effective volunteer involvement.

The resource supports organisations to create clear, consistent policies that guide volunteer engagement, ensuring alignment with governance, safety and organisational values.

Benefits for volunteer managers

  • develop clear and structured volunteer policies
  • ensure consistent volunteer management practices
  • support safe and effective volunteer involvement
  • strengthen governance and accountability.

How to apply this resource

This guide is most useful when creating or reviewing volunteer policies, strengthening governance frameworks, or ensuring volunteer practices align with organisational requirements.

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More about the author

National organisation supporting volunteering and volunteer-involving organisations across Ireland.

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