This information will help participating schools and businesses run their projects as smoothly as possible. It will be regularly updated with new top tips covering a range of different topics associated with Words for Work.
1.) Managing volunteers
By definition, volunteers donate their time, skills and expertise for free. Volunteers are integral to the success of Words for Work. Sally and Laura have a list of top tips for good volunteer management:
- Communicate honestly and effectively with volunteers. This includes administrative elements such as timetabling decisions, and any meetings you wish them to attend, as well as any issues that may arise at any point during delivery.
- Ensure volunteers are welcomed into the school and make your best effort to ensure all staff are aware that there will be visitors on site.
- Ensure any reception staff or those with signing in responsibilities are prepared for volunteers to arrive and know where they must go.
- Keep time well.
- Remember to offer your volunteers support, should they need it - offer them a chance to speak to you after the sessions if convenient or email you, should they wish to feedback.
- Please ensure volunteers are aware of any school protocols in advance.
- Please ensure volunteers are allocated parking spaces if possible.
- If you require any support in managing volunteers, please do not hesitate to contact Sally or Laura at any time.
