SSAFA Volunteer Knowledgebase

Induction Plans for Volunteers - GHH Housing and Welfare Support Volunteer

Updated on

Volunteer RoleColumn 2
Frequency of inductions (i.e. first Monday of each month and times etc.)Within 2 weeks of a new volunteer in role
Method of delivery (face to face / Teams / hybrid etc.)Face to face at GHH offices
Named lead / roleKatharine Hunt, GHH Operations Manager

What will be covered 

TopicFurther detail
Organisational structure and key contacts
  • Who’s Who: Overview of SSAFA’s organisational structure, including line manager and key points of contact.
  • Roles & Responsibilities: Explanation of who does what within the organisation to help volunteers understand how different teams support each other.
SSAFA overview
  • What SSAFA Does: Brief introduction to SSAFA’s services, including:
    • Support for Gurkhas
    • Specialist Caseworkers (SCTs)
    • Local Branches
    • Mentoring Services
  • Volunteer Opportunities: Highlight other roles so new volunteers have a wider understanding of what SSAFA does. 

 

SSAFA values and standards
  • BRAVE Values: Introduction to SSAFA’s core values and how they guide our work.
  • Code of Conduct and professional boundaries: Expectations around behaviour and professionalism.
Practical information
  • Health & Safety Handbook for Volunteers and working safely.
  • Overview of key policies and where to find them.
  • Support Channels: What to do if things aren’t going well—how to contact your Volunteer Development Manager (VDM) or other support staff.
Volunteer Commitment and Tenure
  • Volunteer Agreement: Discuss the agreement and ask a few questions to ensure understanding.
  • Tenure Policy: What to expect if you need to take a break or step back from volunteering.
Support and supervision
  • Overview of the support and supervision on offer, including expectations about volunteer engagement with the process and who will provide this.
Volunteer recognition
  • Reward & Recognition - Explain about:
    • Long Service Awards.
    • Gildea Awards: Volunteers can nominate peers and staff for outstanding contributions.
IT and systems introduction
  • Systems Overview: Introduction to the platforms and tools volunteers will use.
  • Marketing Hub: What’s available, including SSAFA merchandise and communications documents.
Training requirements
  • Mandatory Training: What’s required and when refreshers are due.
  • Role-Specific Training: Additional training relevant to your role.
  • Ongoing Development: Opportunities for further learning and development.
Next steps
  • 3-Month Check-In: We’ll schedule a follow-up to see how you’re getting on.
  • Networking Opportunities: Information on events or meet-ups organised by branches or services.
  • Additional Training: Discuss any further training that may be useful after settling in.
Role specific induction
  • Housekeeping: Where applicable, cover practical details relevant to the role (e.g. workspace, equipment).
  • Overview of the role and how it works.
  • Local or service specific statistics and the impact of the role.
  • Contact details – (line manager, Regional Office, Safeguarding etc. as appropriate).
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