I was a little concerned to see the words 'volunteer agreement' and 'legally
binding' in the same message and am glad that Kirsten pointed out the
dangers of the contractual minefield.
I undertook extensive research and facilitation work for SWMLAC and Culture
South West on heritage volunteering. This resulted in two papers, both
available from their website (www.swmlac.org) by following the links through
'Research'.
One is called 'Unravelling the Knotty twist' and is an examination of the
issues for the heritage field when using volunteers based upon a series of
creative thinking days in the south west. The other is 'Do you work with
volunteers in heritage organisation?' which is a practical information and
guidance document pointing to models of good practice and advice.
There appear to be many misconceptions about working with volunteers but
there is really no need to keep re-inventing the wheel. I have recently been
asked to speak at both a GEM South West Training Day (for which an
information CD was produced and may still be available from the convenor)
and a Conference at The Cumbria Institute of Arts (which also produced a
delegate pack).
You need to tread carefully. The CAB, Relate and The British Heart
Foundation have all found themselves in court because of the questions
around contractual obligation but generally in our field it need not be
complicated so long as you follow sensible common sense models.
If you have difficulties accessing my papers let me know.
Good Luck
Towse Harrison
SUN JESTER
Consultants for Lifelong Learning
Historical Interpreters
Community Artists
12 Ascott Road, Aylesbury, Bucks, HP20 1HX
Tel: 01296 423118
"Anyone who tries to make a distinction between education and entertainment
doesn't know the first thing about either." - Herbert Marshall McLuhan
1911-1980
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