Volunteers Policy

VOLUNTEERS POLICY

PURPOSE

Head Above Water is committed to promoting mental health and well-being within our community. This policy outlines the guidelines and expectations for individuals who volunteer their time to support our mental health initiatives.

VOLUNTEER RESPONSIBILITIES

  1. Confidentiality: Volunteers must maintain strict confidentiality regarding any information shared by individuals seeking assistance. They must not disclose any personal or sensitive information without explicit consent.

  2. Boundaries: Volunteers must establish and maintain appropriate boundaries with individuals they assist. They should avoid engaging in personal relationships or providing advice beyond their scope of training.

  3. Non-judgmental Attitude: Volunteers must approach all interactions with empathy, understanding, and a non-judgmental attitude. They should respect individual differences and avoid imposing their personal beliefs or biases.

  4. Training and Development: Volunteers are required to participate in training sessions and ongoing education to enhance their skills in mental health support. They should actively seek opportunities for personal growth and remain up-to-date with best practices.

  5. Referral and Reporting: Volunteers should be familiar with local mental health resources and be prepared to refer individuals to appropriate professionals or organizations when necessary. They must promptly report any concerns or incidents to the designated coordinator.

  6. Self-Care: Volunteers must prioritize their own mental well-being. They should seek support and debriefing opportunities, as required, to manage the potential emotional impact of their volunteer work.

  7. Professionalism: Volunteers must conduct themselves in a professional manner at all times. They should adhere to the organization's code of conduct, follow guidelines, and maintain regular communication with the designated coordinator.

ORGANISATIONAL SUPPORT

Head Above Water will provide volunteers with necessary resources, training, and supervision to carry out their roles effectively. Volunteers will have access to ongoing support, debriefing sessions, and opportunities for feedback and improvement.

COMPLIANCE

Failure to comply with this policy may result in the termination of a volunteer's role with Head Above Water. Any breaches of confidentiality, unethical behavior, or neglect of responsibilities will be taken seriously and may have legal consequences.

DISCLAIMER

Volunteers are not considered mental health professionals and should not provide diagnoses or therapeutic interventions. Their role is to offer support, empathy, and appropriate referrals to professional resources.

By volunteering with Head Above Water, individuals agree to abide by this policy and contribute to our mission of promoting mental health and well-being in the community.

UPDATED JUNE 2023