0??.1 – Purpose & Scope

The Open Homes Nottingham Volunteering Program aims to provide safe and supportive emergency accommodation to young people at risk of homelessness. This policy outlines the guidelines and expectations for individuals who wish to volunteer with Nightstop.

0??.2 – Eligibility & Recruitment

• All volunteers undergo a comprehensive background check, including an interview, receipt of two references, and DBS check, to ensure the safety of the young people in our care.
• Prospective volunteers will be assessed based on their skills, experience, and suitability for the program.
• All volunteers are appropriately trained relating to the values of Open Homes Nottingham, procedures, safeguarding, confidentiality and boundaries.
• Volunteers must sign and adhere to Open Homes Nottingham’s ‘Volunteer Agreement’ (incorporated into the Volunteer Application Form) which surmises the expectations of Open Homes Nottingham volunteers. 

0??.3 – Roles & Responsibilities

Open Homes Nottingham volunteers may undertake the role of Driver, Nottingham Nightstop Host, Supported Lodgings Host, or Nottingham Nightstop Chaperone. In some circumstances, volunteers may undertake additional roles, such as being put on the on-call rota, or being an Open Homes Nottingham advocate in their community.

Volunteers are expected to adhere to their assigned role's responsibilities, maintain professionalism, and provide a safe and respectful environment for young people.

Volunteers should actively participate in training sessions, and communicate effectively with Open Homes Nottingham staff.

0??.4 – Training & Support

• All volunteers are required to read the appropriate Open Homes Nottingham policies, procedures, and the specific responsibilities of their role.
• All volunteers are required to have annual supervisions in which they will be provided feedback and guidance to ensure they are adequately supported in their roles.
• All volunteers are required to attend 2 training sessions per calendar year.

• All volunteers have access to the Open Homes Nottingham on-call number which is available 24/7.
• All volunteers have access to the Open Homes Nottingham staff team for communication and additional support as required (via email, phone and in person).

0??.5 – Safeguarding

Open Homes Nottingham places the utmost importance on safeguarding the well-being of young people. Volunteers must adhere to Open Homes Nottingham’s Safeguarding Policy, which includes guidelines on appropriate behaviour, maintaining professional boundaries, and reporting concerns or incidents. 

0??.6 – Confidentiality

Volunteers must adhere to Open Homes Nottingham’s Confidentiality Policy.

0??.7 – Equal Opportunities and Diversity

Open Homes Nottingham is committed to providing equal opportunities and treating all individuals, regardless of race, ethnicity, gender, sexual orientation, religion, or disability, with fairness and respect.

Volunteers must interact with service users, staff, and fellow volunteers in a respectful and non-discriminatory manner.

0??.8 – Health and Safety

Volunteers must prioritise the health and safety of young people and themselves.

Volunteers will receive guidance on health and safety practices, emergency procedures, and any necessary risk assessments relevant to their role.

0??.9 – Termination of Volunteering

Open Homes Nottingham reserves the right to terminate a volunteer's involvement if they engage in misconduct, breach Open Homes Nottingham policies, or fail to meet expected standards.

Volunteers will have access to a clear complaints procedure to address any concerns or grievances related to their volunteering experience.