Volunteer Policy

Purpose

Volunteers are an important part of Tower Block Radio. This policy explains how volunteers are recruited, supported, managed and protected.

Scope

This policy applies to all Tower Block Radio volunteers, including people helping with:

• Radio shows.
• Admin.
• Events.
• Workshops.
• Artist liaison.
• Archive work.
• Social media.
• Technical support.
• Fundraising.
• Community outreach.

Volunteer status

Volunteers are not employees. Volunteering is unpaid and does not create an employment relationship. Volunteers give their time freely and can stop volunteering. Tower Block Radio can also end a volunteering arrangement if needed.

Recruitment

Tower Block Radio aims to recruit volunteers fairly. Depending on the role, recruitment may include:

• Application form.
• Informal interview.
• Role discussion.
• References.
• Safeguarding checks.
• DBS check where appropriate.
• Agreement to policies and code of conduct.

Equal opportunity

Volunteer opportunities should be open and accessible wherever possible. Tower Block Radio will aim to remove unnecessary barriers and support people from different backgrounds to get involved.

Induction

Volunteers should receive:

• Role description.
• Named contact.
• Introduction to Tower Block Radio.
• Relevant policies.
• Safeguarding information where needed.
• Health and safety information.
• Data protection guidance where needed.
• Training relevant to the role.

Support and supervision

Each volunteer should have a named contact. Volunteers should be able to ask questions, raise concerns and receive feedback.

Conduct

Volunteers must:

• Treat people with respect.
• Follow Tower Block Radio policies.
• Keep confidential information private.
• Avoid conflicts of interest.
• Attend agreed activity or give notice if unavailable.
• Not misuse Tower Block Radio contacts, music submissions, equipment or access.
• Report safeguarding or safety concerns quickly.

Expenses

Tower Block Radio may reimburse pre approved reasonable expenses where funding allows and where the Expenses Policy is followed. Expenses must be agreed in advance unless there is an emergency.

Insurance

Tower Block Radio will aim to hold appropriate insurance for activities involving volunteers. Volunteers must follow instructions, risk assessments and safe working arrangements.

Safeguarding

Volunteers working with or around children, young people or adults at risk must follow Tower Block Radio safeguarding policies. Some roles may require additional checks or supervision.

Confidentiality

Volunteers may see personal information, music submissions, private emails, unreleased tracks, partner information or financial details. This information must not be shared without permission.

Ending a volunteer role

A volunteer may stop volunteering at any time. Tower Block Radio may also end a role if:

• The role is no longer needed.
• The volunteer breaches policy.
• There are safeguarding concerns.
• Conduct is not appropriate.
• The volunteer is unable to carry out the role safely.
• Funding or activity changes.

Raising concerns

Volunteers can raise concerns using the Complaints Policy or by contacting: hello@towerblock.radio

Review

This policy will be reviewed annually.