
As restrictions lift, will new work requirements be, like our old workwear in the wardrobe, a welcome change, or will they need some adjusting?
Many co-operatives rely on the help of volunteers and without them they would find it difficult to run their organisations. While from the outside it may seem that there is no legal relationship between an organisation and a volunteer, there often is, and it is imperative that organisations are clear on the organisational management of volunteers.
Although a volunteer may act as an employee in terms of the tasks they carry out, they do not have a contract of employment. It is important that volunteer arrangements are in place to ensure that the relationship and expectations are defined and recorded. Volunteer arrangements provide a clear distinction between volunteers and employees. There are certain circumstances where the line between volunteer and employee can become blurred, including:
If these lines are crossed an organisation could find themselves vulnerable to claims from volunteers. At Anthony Collins Solicitors we work with you, as co-operative or mutual, to provide support and advice on all aspects of the organisation and management of volunteers and help your organisation ensure that you have safeguarded yourself against the risk of claims.
We have extensive experience of working within the co-operative sector but also with groups working with volunteers (such as charities). We use this sector knowledge and our experience to work in partnership with our clients to ensure they are aware of their legal obligations toward volunteers. We can advise on all aspects of volunteer management, including:
Our specialist team are well placed to advise on volunteer issues as many have personal experience of volunteering and are trustees of organisations which regularly work with volunteers.
As restrictions lift, will new work requirements be, like our old workwear in the wardrobe, a welcome change, or will they need some adjusting?
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