Volunteers are an important resource for the Probation Service. The North Wales Probation Area recognizes the need for proper recruitment, selection, training and supervision of Volunteers. It is also recognized that the experience of volunteering should be worthwhile for both the NWPA and the Volunteer. Volunteers may be sourced and coordinated by the multi agency Volunteer Coordinator who works to compatible policies for the purposes of tasks, recruitment and selection, training and development etc.
Definition of Volunteers
Volunteers are people who commit time and energy for the benefit of others in the community and for themselves; who do so freely, through personal choice, and without financial reward, except for payment of out of pocket expenses. Volunteers have a complementary role and should not supplement paid staff or fill in temporary or vacant positions.
Clarification of Volunteer Tasks
The tasks to be performed by volunteers will be clearly defined so that all concerned with their activities are sure of their respective responsibilities. There will be different levels of competency and responsibility linked to an accreditation / development structure. Examples of tasks are:
- General support / mentoring / social skills work, e.g. budgeting, lifestyle, pro-social modeling.
- Family support and advocay, e.g. prisoners' families, benefits, accommodation.
- Personal development / learning, e.g. literacy, numeracy, accessing training, education and employment, constructive use of leisure / occupation.
- Probation Officer support, e.g. joint home visiting.
- Briefing / supporting low risk prisoners.
- Office support roles.
- Officed advisory / 'Duty' service.
- Accredited programme mentoring and support.
- Substance abuse programme support.
- Probation Officer support / assigned tasks with high risk offeners.
- Victim enquiry support and communication maintenance.
- Local community project co-ordination for Unpaid Work.
Recruitment and Selection
The multi agency volunteer coordinator recruits and co-ordinates the training of volunteers, in addition NWPA sourcing its own volunteers directly. The volunteer coordinator provides volunteers with access to accredited training and other training. However if NWPA gains volunteers via this route the appropriate manager may wish to coordinate specific training pertnent to NWPA.
Driving
A volunteer may be required to use their private vehicle in connection with volunteering. A mileage allowance which will be subject to review will be payable. The volunteer will therefore be required to hold a full current driving licence, the vehicle must hold a current MOT certificate and the vehicle be insured for business purposes.
Expenses
Volunteers will be reimbursed for out of pocket traveling costs and other essential expenses. The rate will be agreed by the NWPA and will be reviewed from time to time.
Health and Safety
All volunteers are required to observe the Area's statement of Health and Safety Policy at all times and have due regard to the safety of themselves and others. A full copy of the document is available on the Document Library and at local offices.
Interested?
If you are interested in volunteering for the NWPA please contact us at:
North Wales Probation Area Headquarters
Alexandra House
Abergele Road
Colwyn Bay
LL29 9YF
or:
The Multi-Agency Volunteer Coordinator
North Wales Community Justice Partnership
23A Abergele Road
Colwyn Bay
LL29 7RS
