1. Introduction

At Children of God Christian Coaching CIC, we deeply value the gifts, time, and heart that volunteers bring to our mission. Our work with children is enriched by those who feel called to serve through faith-based activities, prayer, and Christian care. This policy sets out our approach to recruiting, supporting, and safeguarding volunteers in line with our values and legal responsibilities.

2. Our Commitment to Volunteers

We aim to ensure that:

• Volunteers are welcomed, respected, and supported
• Roles are clearly defined and meaningful
• Safeguarding and child protection procedures are always followed
• Training and supervision are provided
• Volunteers serve in an environment of encouragement and mutual respect
• Contributions are acknowledged and appreciated

3. Definition of a Volunteer

A volunteer is someone who freely chooses to offer their time, energy, and skills to support our mission without financial compensation. Volunteers may assist in activities such as:

• Supporting workshops, prayer sessions, or faith-based events
• Helping with set-up, refreshments, or administration
• Participating in children’s activities or liturgy
• Offering music, storytelling, or creative skills

4. Recruitment and Selection

To ensure the safety of children and the integrity of our work, all potential volunteers must:

• Complete a Volunteer Application Form
• Attend an informal meeting or interview
• Provide two references
• Undergo a Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check where relevant
• Agree to follow our Safeguarding Policy and Code of Conduct

5. Induction and Training

All volunteers will receive:

• An induction outlining our vision, mission, and child protection procedures
• Training appropriate to their role, including safeguarding (Level 1 or higher)
• Ongoing guidance and supervision as needed

6. Safeguarding and Boundaries

• Volunteers must always put the safety and wellbeing of children first
• Physical contact must be appropriate and guided by safeguarding policy
• Volunteers must report any safeguarding concerns immediately to the Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL)

Failure to comply with safeguarding standards may result in dismissal from the volunteer role.

7. Confidentiality

Volunteers must respect the privacy of children, families, and team members. Personal information must never be shared outside of authorised channels.

8. Support and Supervision

Volunteers will:

• Have a named point of contact for support
• Be invited to team meetings or reflections where appropriate
• Be encouraged to share feedback, concerns, or suggestions

9. Reimbursement of Expenses

Where agreed in advance, volunteers may be reimbursed for reasonable out-of-pocket expenses (e.g., travel), subject to receipts and budget approval.

10. Ending a Volunteer Role

Volunteers are free to leave at any time and we ask for notice where possible. We also reserve the right to end a volunteer arrangement if policies are breached, or if the role no longer aligns with the needs of the organisation.

Contact:
To express interest in volunteering or for more information, please contact Marta Krason at marta.krason@childrenofgod.co.uk or visit childrenofgod.co.uk.